A proposed longitudinal study of boys' and men's health and well-being in Greater Sydney, Australia

Men's and boys' health is a significant public health issue in Australia and, by most indicators, it is poorer than that of women. Numerous epidemiological studies have found premature deaths in this population from heart disease, cancer, accidents, injuries and suicide. There is little research evidence, at least in the Australian context, of the negative or positive influence of social determinants on the health of boys and men. This paper makes the case for a pilot study to be run with selected boys' and men's cohorts over a period of time. The aim is to understand better how health outcomes (physical health, mental health, positive health and resilience, access to health services, and other important health issues) are influenced over time by social determinants. The framework for such a study is provided for selected health regions in Greater Sydney, Australia.