This season of It Can't Hurt To Ask, we're taking a deep dive into your men's health questions and concerns.

In this episode we're exploring how you can say fit, strong, and resilient as you age. Whether you're 25 or 45, it's never too early to start laying the foundations for healthy ageing.

Our featured expert is Dr Eric Chung, professor of surgery at the University of Queensland and a consultant urologist at the Princess Alexandra Hospital. He's here to share tips to unlock your best self now and into the future.

You'll hear from Queensland men, Andrew and Kevin, who share their experiences and views on staying healthy at any age.

Learn about the many factors affecting ageing well. Besides the more obvious ones, such as a healthy diet and exercise, you'll also hear about the effects of risky behaviours, family history, chronic conditions, substance use, mental wellbeing, social connectedness, happiness, and even your sex life, on healthy ageing.

If you'd like to learn more about men's health, listen to the other men's health episodes in this brand-new season.

Please leave us a review—we'd love to hear your thoughts.

Episode Resources:

Ageing well

Everyone deserves to live well and maintain their health and independence into the future. To learn more, visit the Australian Government's websites: Positive ageing is ageing well and Tips for healthy ageing.

Many factors influence healthy ageing. Some of these, such as genetics, are not in our control. Others—such as exercise, a healthy diet, going to the doctor regularly, and taking care of our mental health—are within our reach.

Exercise

Physical activity is important at any age for good physical and mental health and wellbeing. It reduces the risk of many diseases, including some cancers. Learn how much exercise you should be doing and how to fit it into your day by reading the Physical activity and exercise guidelines for all Australians and the Choose Health, Be Active booklet.

Diet

Making smart food choices can help protect you from certain health problems as you age and may even help improve brain function. Visit the Australian guide to healthy eating for more information.

Mental health and wellbeing

Mental health, or mental wellness, is essential to your overall health and quality of life. It affects how we think, feel, act, make choices, and relate to others. Managing social isolation, loneliness, stress, depression, and mood through medical and self-care is key to healthy ageing.

If you feel that you may be in need of mental health support and have never accessed a mental health service before, our mental health access line 1300 MH CALL (1300 642 255) is available 24/7. This is a confidential mental health telephone triage service and is the first point of contact to Queensland public mental health services.

Organisations like Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) and the Men's Shed Association are also available to provide mental wellbeing support. Find your local Men's shed location to connect with your community face-to-face, or speak to a Beyond Blue counsellor online or by phone.

Preventive health

Looking after your body and mind by getting vaccinated and avoiding risky behaviours – like smoking or drinking too much – can prevent many diseases and keep you healthy and well.

If you're concerned about your own or someone else's alcohol and other drugs use. Call Adis 24/7 Alcohol and Drug Support on 1800 177 833. You can also visit their website for more information or to chat with a counsellor online.

If you’re thinking about quitting smoking or vaping or are ready to quit contact Quitline on 13 78 48 or request a Quitline call by visiting their website.