Men’s health in spotlight as MHERV returns

MEN’S health will be in the spotlight when the Men’s Health Education Rural Van visits Narrabri and Gunnedah this month.

The van is an initiative of the Rotary Clubs of NSW and its upcoming trip to the North West will be facilitated thanks to local clubs in both towns.

A visit to the van, known as MHERV, takes up to just 10 minutes and could save a life.

Men are checked for blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol.

“For most, there is no culture to see their doctor for a regular check-up. Indeed it could be said that many men are afraid to do so in case they are told something they wouldn’t like to hear,” MHERV operators say.

“Consequently, conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol and high blood sugar which have little or no apparent symptoms, can build up and lead to sudden unexpected death or long-term incapacity.

“Tests may show no reason for concern, or at the other end of the scale it may be recommended that immediate medical attention be sought for treatment that would bring the condition under control… probably saving a life!”

In the last almost 10 years, MHERV has conducted thousands of tests.

More than 8,000 were found to be in need of treatment and more than 600 were in immediate danger of a stroke or heart attack.

Rotary Club of Narrabri president Julie Herbert said the club is delighted to welcome MHERV back to the area.

“This is Rotary at its very best – taking practical, life-saving services directly to the communities that need them most,” Julie said.

“For many people living in rural and remote areas, finding time or access to routine health checks isn’t always easy.

“MHERV removes some of those barriers by bringing free, confidential health screenings right to the heart of our communities.”

Julie said the statistics speak for themselves.

“Since 2017, the MHERV program has provided health checks to thousands of people across regional and rural New South Wales, with many of those referred for follow-up treatment. Hundreds have been identified as being at immediate risk of a heart attack or stroke,” she said.

“Those are lives that may have been changed – or even saved – through a simple check that takes only a few minutes.

“Our club is proud to support this Rotary initiative and to work alongside the dedicated MHERV team, local volunteers and health professionals who make these visits possible.

“We encourage everyone – particularly the blokes who haven’t had a check-up for a while – to take advantage of this opportunity.

“Looking after your health isn’t just important for you; it’s important for your family and your community as well.”

MHERV will be located in Conadilly Street, Gunnedah, on 10 and 11 August and at Bunnings Narrabri on 15 and 16 August.