Fred MacAulay lends support to university workshop on men's health issues

The conversation around men’s health is getting louder thanks to Dundee University’s latest workshop in its successful “Let’s Talk About” series.

Now in its third instalment, the event titled “Let’s Talk About…Men’s Health”, aims to tackle the stigma and silence that too often surrounds male health issues.

Taking place at the University’s Kirkcaldy Campus, the free drop-in event will feature practical demonstrations, expert discussions, and powerful personal stories designed to raise awareness and save lives.

Among those sharing their experiences is Paul McCaffery, a testicular cancer survivor and advocate for Cahonas Scotland, a charity dedicated to promoting early detection of testicular cancer.

Paul was diagnosed in 2015 but, like many men, hesitated to see a doctor.

“It’s almost like this flight or fight thing,” he told STV News. “For that month I was in flight – I didn’t want to think about it. I tried to ignore it until I couldn’t anymore.”

Now cancer-free, Paul is passionate about education and outreach. He’ll be leading a demonstration on how to check for signs of both testicular and prostate cancer.

“It’s not just about getting men through the door,” Paul added. “We want everyone to come, because if we all know the signs and symptoms, we can spread awareness in our families and communities.”

Lisa Ferguson from the University of Dundee understands the uphill battle when it comes to getting men to prioritise their health.

“We know that men don’t like to go to their GPs,” she said. “A recent study said that 75 percent of them would rather do housework than see their doctor.”

She hopes the relaxed, informal setting will make it easier for men to ask questions.

Lisa will also be speaking at the event, focusing on common skin conditions that disproportionately affect men.

Scottish comedian Fred MacAulay is lending his voice to the campaign.

Recently diagnosed with prostate cancer, a disease that affects one in eight men, the 68-year-old has been proactive about his health due to a family history of the condition.

“I’ve recently talked about my health publicly,” he said, “and I hope this event encourages other men to talk about theirs, both physical and mental.”

“I really hope that the men and women of Kirkcaldy take this opportunity to come together to talk about men’s health, share knowledge, and keep well.”

This latest event takes place at the University of Dundee’s Kirkcaldy Campus, Forth Avenue, from 6pm to 8.30pm on Wednesday September 10.