COUNCILS are calling for the creation of a national men’s health strategy, warning that those in deprived areas are living up to a decade less than their counterparts in wealthier communities.

A report by the Local Government Association (LGA) warns that such men face a “silent health crisis,” with higher rates of cancers, heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

It says that stark inequalities lead to men in deprived areas dying 10 years earlier — and facing a 20-year gap in healthy life expectancy —  than residents of affluent areas. 

It notes the success of local schemes such as Gateshead council’s Man v Fat programme, which helps men boost their health through football, but argues for a nationwide strategy.

Among the government support sought by the LGA is the reinstatement of suicide prevention funding, with the report noting that men account for four out of every five suicides. 

A £57 million fund helped councils support those at risk of taking their own life, but it closed in March.