More than a dozen USC Nursing Science students will support the Australian Men’s Shed Association ‘Spanner In The Works’ campaign by carrying out free health screening checks for local blokes as part of Men’s Health Week (10–16 June).
The program aims to encourage men to look after their own health in the same way they care for their cars and machinery by providing some key suggestions around things men can do – or not do – to improve their health and their chances of a longer and happier life.
The health screening session will be held on Thursday 13 June at the new Buderim Men’s Shed at Kuluin from 8:30am to 3pm, where students will conduct blood pressure tests, body mass index, joint range of motion, basic mental health screening and more, under the guidance of three USC Registered Nurse academics.
USC School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedics Team Leader, Bronwyn Doyle, said it was the second time USC students would be involved in the event.
“Last year we screened 80 men and we expect this year to be twice as big,” Ms Doyle said.
“It’s a wonderful learning experience for our Nursing students and offers a great opportunity for USC to give back to our community by actively helping to improve our local men’s health.”
Buderim Men’s Shed president Barry Cheales said the ‘Spanner In The Works’ campaign also includes a Men’s Health Tool Box resource that prompts men to consider when they last checked in for ‘a service’.
“Knowing when to have your car checked is no different than keeping your body in peak condition,” Mr Cheales said.
“Men need to start recognising that our most valuable piece of machinery is our own health, and the free health screenings supported by USC is a great place to start.”
The Men’s Health Tool Box can be accessed via the Men’s Shed website.
