The state of men’s health in the city of Leeds: using evidence to commission gender-sensitive services

Leeds 2013 Joint Strategic Needs Assessment highlighted a four-year lower life expectancy in men compared to women but the underlying causes of this were not thoroughly understood. A review of men’s health and service use was funded. Analysis of GP audit and Public Health Observatory data showed that men were more likely to die prematurely than women (20% of male deaths occurring before age 65 vs. 12% of female deaths), more likely to engage in unhealthy lifestyle behaviours, yet less likely to use lifestyle services or complete health checks and bowel cancer screening. Large within-sex variation was observed at a local level (MSOA level). Inequalities were a consistent theme in citywide policy, however men were rarely mentioned. Following this review, the latest Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy highlighted the impact of gender on health outcomes and suggested a more person-centric approach to service provision. The review influenced the healthy living, community health development and preventative cancer service specifications. This review identified where men have the greatest needs and provided evidence to get men’s health on the agenda in Leeds. This close working relationship between research and practice demonstrates how academic support can be utilised to improve commissioning and service design.