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Government of Canada releases findings from the National Conversation on Men and Boys’ Health

Health Canada (HC)
Monday at 1:27pm AST · November 2, 2026 4 min read

OTTAWA, ON, Nov. 2, 2026 /CNW/ — November rhymes with Movember, and with International Men’s Day approaching on November 19, this month shines an important spotlight on the health and well-being of men and boys, supporting them to lead healthy and fulfilling lives while recognizing their important contributions to families, communities, and Canadian society.

That’s why today, the Honourable Marjorie Michel, Minister of Health, released the What We Heard Report from the national conversation on men and boys’ health that took place this past winter and spring. The report summarizes what Canadians shared about the challenges affecting the health and well-being of men and boys, the factors contributing to those challenges, and the actions needed to help them thrive.

Through this conversation launched in February 2026, Canadians, community organizations, experts and Indigenous partners emphasized the importance of mental health, social connection, and reducing barriers to seeking help.

They also highlighted the importance of mentorship, positive role models, healthy relationships, and community-based supports in helping men and boys thrive, feel connected, and seek support when needed.

The findings underscore that men and boys have diverse experiences and needs, shaped by factors such as age, income, culture, where they live, and their life experiences.

The Government of Canada thanks everyone who participated in this important conversation. Their perspectives will help build Canada’s first Federal Men and Boys’ Health and Well-being Strategy, which will be released in early 2027. A focus on men and boys’ health complements ongoing efforts to improve women’s health, recognizing that each faces distinct health challenges and that improving health outcomes benefits everyone.

Quotes

“Nearly 6,000 people from across Canada took part in our national conversation on men and boys’ health, sharing their observations and perspectives. We heard that too many men and boys are struggling, often without the support they need. I want to thank everyone who participated in this important conversation. Their voices will continue to guide our efforts to improve the health and well-being of men and boys and contribute to building a healthier future for communities across Canada.”

The Honourable Marjorie Michel

Minister of Health

“At Movember, we’ve seen firsthand, through our work around the world, what’s possible when governments take men’s health seriously. We’re proud to have supported the Government of Canada in this historic first step, helping bring the voices and experiences of men and boys into the national conversation. The findings reinforce what we’ve long heard from our community: improving men’s health starts well before a crisis, by strengthening social connections and creating the conditions for men and boys to live healthier, longer lives. We’re grateful to our Movember community, whose support makes this work possible, and look forward to seeing these insights translated into meaningful action.”

Andrew Little

Global Chief Executive Officer, Movember

“Canada has an opportunity to fundamentally change how we support the health and well-being of men and boys. For too long, we have waited until they’re in crisis before offering help. We need to reach boys and young men earlier. We commend the Minister for engaging Canadians, health experts and people with lived experience in shaping this strategy, and we were proud to play a role in that. When we improve the health of men and boys, we strengthen families, communities and Canada as a whole.”

Kenton Boston

President & Chief Executive Officer, Canadian Men’s Health Foundation

Quick facts

  • The national conversation was launched on February 23, 2026, for a 3-month period, and included an online questionnaire, written submissions, roundtables, and discussions with stakeholders, experts, as well as provincial, territorial, Indigenous, and international partners.
  • The Government of Canada is working with Movember Canada, as an independent convening partner, to engage relevant sector experts, leaders, academics, and stakeholders in informing the development of the Federal Men and Boys’ Health Strategy.
  • Improved men’s health in Canada could save $12.4 billion annually, with billions more in increased productivity, according to Movember Canada’s 2025 study on the Real Face of Men’s Health.

Associated links

SOURCE Health Canada (HC)

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