Calling All Men

June 1, 2004

Calling All Men - Graham Lowe To Mark International Men's Health Week With Speaking Tour

International Men's Health Week will be marked in New Zealand by the commencement of an evening speaking series on men's health issues, led by inspirational Kiwi sporting legend Graham Lowe.

The speaking series, which will look broadly at issues of men's health in an informative and relaxed way and see Graham accompanied by experts in the field, is being supported by Cialis(r), the erectile dysfunction treatment.

International Men's Health Week takes place between June 14-20.

Graham says his own experience with poor health, including heart problems and a stroke, has made him a passionate advocate for men to look after their health.

"The average Kiwi bloke doesn't like to draw attention to himself, he thinks it's a sign of weakness to go to the doctor," Graham says. "But I know, in my own case, going to the doctor was the best thing I ever did.

"If you listen to what your body is telling you, you can deal with a problem now, avoid a lot of worry, and get back to enjoying your life. Part of the problem is that there is very little focus on men's health. This tour is about informing the average bloke about how to look after himself better, and get more out of life.

"You don't have to put up with poor health."

James Sleigh, managing director of Eli Lilly (NZ), which markets Cialis, said the company was prompted to support the speaking series based on its own experience in dealing with the male health issue, erectile dysfunction (ED), which has been cited as a symptom of underlying conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and hypertension.

"You quickly become aware that there is little awareness in New Zealand of male health issues. While International Men's Health Week is being marked all over the world, here it's in danger of disappearing without a trace," he said.

"Hopefully, this initiative will help men take that first step with their health. In our case we speak of erectile dysfunction but what we are really about is helping men 'function' and lead more healthy lives. It's that positive message that Graham and his colleague will focus on as they provide an entertaining overview of health issues facing the average man."

Cialis plans to announce further initiatives to promote Men's Health Week.

The evening speaking tour will travel to four different venues, beginning with Grey Lynn in Auckland on June 15, Nelson on June 17, Napier on June 22 and finishing back in Auckland at Onehunga on June 24.

The four venues were chosen on the basis they had a higher than average percentage of males aged 40+ years.

"We hope this will be the start of an annual series that will take us all across New Zealand," Mr Sleigh said.

ENDS

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