Most men find it difficult enough to ask for directions, so seeking medical advice, especially for potentially embarrassing heath problems, is often extremely difficult.
For this reason, the City of Cape Town has established a dedicated Men’s Clinic in Gugulethu, in partnership with the Sonke Gender Justice Network.
Designed to cater specifically for men and their health needs, it will offer clinical services such as HIV testing and counselling; screening for sexually transmitted diseases and tuberculosis, as well as distributing condoms to promote safe sex in the community. Training, counselling, information and referrals on issues such as substance abuse and refugee rights will also be offered.
The Sonke Gender Justice team will be responsible for social mobilisation on health and gender issues, hosting workshops on health education and conducting outreach programmes.
The clinic was officially opened by Mayoral Committee Member for Health, Cllr Lungiswa James, on Friday 17 February 2012. She said it was a “golden opportunity” for men to improve their health and wellness.
“The need for such a dedicated men’s clinic was identified when we realised that men are often reluctant to visit general clinics, despite their susceptibility to particular types of illness,” she said.
Men tend to seek support for health problems indirectly, with perceived vulnerability, fear and denial being important influences, she added. Other barriers to seeking medical help include factors related to a man’s traditional role in society, difficulty in relinquishing control, and a sense of immunity.
“As a result of these factors, we see men’s life expectancy being lower than that of women,” Cllr James pointed out.
“The clinic intends to make men partners in health by providing a space to actively participate in health matters and take full responsibility.
“As a Caring City, we are working tirelessly to provide this service in all areas,” she said. “We urge men to use these services for their own benefit and the benefit of their families and the entire society.”
Cllr James thanked all those who had made the clinic possible, including Mzoli Properties for donating the physical structure; Klipfontein Sub-District officials, and the Sonke Gender Justice Network team.
- The services will be provided at NY1 Clinic opposite the Gugulethu Mall. Clinical services by City health officials will initially only be available from 09:00 – 16:30 on Tuesdays and Thursdays, but will eventually increase to cover a wide range of offerings.
- For more information, call 021 633 3140.
- City Health website.
