The Government of Canada has officially launched a landmark national conversation on Men and Boys’ Health. This initiative marks a turning point in federal health policy, aiming to address long-overlooked physical and mental health challenges to build a “Canada Strong.”
The feedback gathered from this coast-to-coast dialogue will directly inform the development of Canada’s first Men and Boys’ Health Strategy, scheduled for release in late 2026.
Why This Strategy Matters: The Data
The health of men and boys isn’t just a personal issue—it’s a national economic and social priority. According to a 2025 study by Movember Canada, improving men’s health could:
- Save the Canadian economy $12.4 billion annually.
- Generate billions more in increased productivity.
- Strengthen families and reduce the prevalence of gender-based violence.
The Current Crisis by the Numbers
Recent statistics highlight the urgent need for a coordinated federal response:
- Suicide & Mental Health: Men are 3 times more likely than women to die by suicide.
- Substance Use: 72% of all apparent opioid toxicity deaths (July 2024–June 2025) were among males.
- Preventable Death: In 2021, men were twice as likely to die from preventable causes compared to women.
- Barriers to Care: 65% of Canadian men wait more than six days with symptoms before seeking medical help.
A Call to Action: How to Participate
The government is inviting men, boys, families, community groups, and experts to share their lived experiences.
- Where to go: Visit Canada.ca/Healthy-Men.
- Online Feedback: Starting March 2, a direct online feedback form will be available to all Canadians.
- Deadline: The conversation remains open until June 1, 2026.
“Help us build a strategy that improves health, prevents harm, and strengthens our communities—for men, boys, and for everyone in Canada.” — The Honourable Marjorie Michel, Minister of Health
Key Pillars of the Conversation
The strategy will look beyond clinical settings to address where men live, work, and play:
- Workplace Culture: Confronting the “suffering in silence” mentality in trades and high-pressure industries.
- Social Connectivity: Addressing the rise of social isolation and the influence of harmful online spaces (the “manosphere”).
- Preventative Care: Breaking the stigma around health screenings and primary care visits.
- Physical Activity: Utilizing sport as a gateway to better mental and physical well-being.
Leading the Global Charge
With this move, Canada joins a select group of nations—including Australia, the UK, South Africa, Malaysia, and Brazil—that have published dedicated Men’s Health Strategies. This follows the success of the 1999 Women’s Health Strategy, which revolutionized care for maternal health and reproductive rights in Canada.
Partnership with Movember
The Government is partnering with Movember Canada as an independent convening partner. Together, they will engage academics, sector leaders, and stakeholders to ensure the 2026 strategy is evidence-based and culturally responsive.
