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The event is taking place opposite the Food Quarter in the city centre shopping centre and aims to do something about some of the stark realities such as local men dying, on average, almost five years younger than women do.

Mr Lynch - a facilitator at the Men’s Action Network (MAN) - says the theme for Men’s Health Week 2012 is: “Men’s Health - What’s Your First Instinct...Fight? Flight? Find Out?”

“Human beings start out life with a pre-disposition for self-preservation,” he explains. “This ‘first instinct’ drives them to eat well, keep fit, be active, ensure personal safety, look after themselves, work collectively and tend to injuries.

“However, over time - especially in Western societies - it is easy to become complacent, individualistic, isolated, lonely and, consequently, for health (physical, mental, emotional and spiritual) to suffer.”

This week’s event will aim to encourage men to take constructive steps in order to address any possible health problems in a timely manner.

Mr Lynch adds: “This year, the focus of Men’s Health Week is upon developing a ‘First Instinct’ in males which is to actively seek help, advice, support, and to act quickly in times of difficulty, crisis or ill health.

“We are encouraging men to choose the ‘find out’ option rather than to ignore symptoms, turn to alcohol, ‘soldier on’ or take their own life when faced with problems.”

Each day between 10am-5pm MAN will have information and displays on men’s health and wellbeing and will be offering free health checks and a chance to de-stress by engaging in some complementary therapies.

Between 1pm-3pm each day men can have their BMI, blood pressure, sugar and cholesterol levels checked and from 12-1pm and 3pm-4pm can try some taster sessions of complementary therapies such as head massage or reflexology.

So the challenge is set to men in our local communities, “come out” to Foyleside Shopping Centre this week and “find out” more about your health and wellbeing.

To find out more about the Foyleside event please contact MAN on 02871377.