

Dr. John Oliffe - The True (And Troubling) Face Of Men's Health
29 snips Jun 30, 2025
Dr. John Oliffe, a Professor and Tier 1 Canada Research Chair focused on men’s health promotion, shares eye-opening insights about men’s health issues. He reveals alarming statistics showing that 2 in 5 men in Canada die prematurely from preventable causes. The conversation delves into 'protest masculinity' and its links to risky behaviors and mental health struggles. Oliffe also discusses stigma around seeking help and the pressing need for healthcare reform to better address men’s unique health challenges and improve support systems.
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Premature Male Mortality Insights
- Men in Canada die prematurely largely from preventable causes like cardiovascular disease, cancer, accidents, and suicide.
- Social determinants like income, education, and occupation influence risky behaviors and premature death.
Men's Self-Medication Pattern
- Men self-medicate with substances after injury or emotional pain, leading to isolation and risky behaviors.
- Many substance issues stem from impulsive attempts to cope without addressing core emotions.
Connor's Construction Work Story
- Connor shared his experience working tough construction jobs in Northern Alberta as a young man facing harsh conditions.
- This revealed to him the pressure men face to fulfill traditional roles like providing and owning a home despite shifting societal expectations.