BRIMBANK blokes will be encouraged to take better care of themselves at a men’s health forum next week.

Run by Keilor Rotary, the forum aims to fight back against diseases crippling the municipality’s males.

Compared to the Victorian average, men living in Brimbank suffer from poorer overall health, as well as higher rates of cardiovascular disease, mental health disorders and diabetes.

The campaign to create greater awareness of men’s health has been backed by Brimbank City Council, who donated 4,500 to the cause.

Keilor Rotary President Norm Draper said a “she’ll be right” attitude often made men reluctant to go to the doctor.

“Most men seem to wait until they’re really sick to go to the doctor,” Mr Draper said.

“They don’t seem to go for regular check-ups.

“But with a lot of these diseases, by the time that symptoms appear, it is too late.

“We’re trying to get men to focus more on their health as a way of raising the standard in Brimbank.”

The forum will be held on 10 February at the Keilor Bowls Club at 7.30pm.

Rotary will also be holding a health information expo, including free blood pressure checks this Sunday at the Keilor Hotel.