AFLCA interim CEO Mark Brayshaw said at the launch of Men’s Health Week, supported by Chemist Warehouse, that raising awareness of men’s health and wellbeing issues was a priority for the AFL coaching fraternity.
Men’s Health Week seeks to shine a light on the range of health issues facing men, with a particular focus on addressing the problems associated with smoking in the community.
Brayshaw noted that smoking continued to be the leading cause of preventable disease and death in Australia, which was why the AFLCA had made it a priority during Men’s Health Week and welcomed the offer from Chemist Warehouse to ‘trade a cigarette for a Nicorette’.
“As an organisation made up of males in the high risk category for a number of health issues, the AFL Coaches’ Association is committed to driving awareness of men’s health in the broader community along with the promotion of a healthy, active lifestyle,” Brayshaw said.
“One issue that continues to significantly impact the community is smoking, particularly amongst young men under the age of 35. The health dangers of smoking have been well documented, along with the cost implications in today’s tough economic climate, but there is still much more we can do to reduce smoking-related illnesses.
“Through the backing of the AFL senior coaches we want to bring this issue into focus and encourage better health and we’re delighted that Chemist Warehouse is supporting the initiative by encouraging smokers to hand in their cigarettes in a bid to kick the habit.”
AFL medical director Dr Harry Unglik commended the AFLCA for drawing attention to men’s health issues through the Men’s Health Week initiative.
“I congratulate the Coaches’ Association for placing the issue of men’s health firmly in the public eye and drawing a particular focus on addressing smoking-related illnesses,” Dr Unglik said.
“There are many health categories in the community that are dominated by males of all ages, with smoking being a prime example. While the proportion of people smoking in Australia is dropping, it continues to claim the lives of an alarming number of people in this country each year. We support any measures to help smokers successfully quit and improve their health status.”
Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson said he, along with his colleagues in the AFL ranks, was only too happy to support Men’s Health Week.
“As AFL coaches we are constantly dealing with elite athletes who place the greatest priority on their health and wellbeing,” he said.
“We see the impact of a healthy and active lifestyle but we are also acutely aware of the health issues impacting the broader community. Most of us know someone who smokes and so anything that reduces the frequency and impact of smoking in the community is a good thing.”
Chemist Warehouse COO Mario Tascone added: “Chemist Warehouse is delighted to be part of this important initiative lead by the AFLCA. Quitting smoking is not easy but it's a whole lot easier when you have help. We know nicotine replacement therapy increases the chances of quitting successfully by 50-70 per cent, so we will put our full support behind Men's Health Week by offering this great trade in deal at every Chemist Warehouse store nationwide.”
As part of the AFL Coaches’ Association’s commitment to addressing men’s health issues, Chemist Warehouse will offer to trade ‘a cigarette for a Nicorette’ – patrons can exchange a single cigarette for a pack of 28 Nicorette patches. Terms and conditions apply. Click here for details.
