A new national health checks programme has been rolled out across the country by the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA), following its launch at the National Ploughing Championships.
The Farmer Health Checks Programme , in partnership with Croí Heart & Stroke Charity, will provide farmers with a free health check worth €200.
Clinics for health checks will be set up at livestock marts over the next six weeks, beginning with Ballyjamesduff Mart, Co. Cavan next Tuesday, October 1.
Minister of State with responsibility for farm safety, Martin Heydon confirmed funding for the programme last week.
“Investing in health and wellbeing can have long-term benefits for farmers and their families and help make farms safer places to live and work,” Minister Heydon said.
The checks will continue at marts across the country for the month of October and into November. Details on dates and venues are available on the IFA website.
Health checks
IFA president Francie Gorman is appealing to farmers to make an effort to attend their nearest health check clinic and to be “more conscious of their health”.
IFA farm family and social affairs chair Teresa Roche said: “Often the focus is on the health of our livestock and land rather than our own health and wellbeing. This initiative is a reminder that looking after ourselves is just as important as anything else.”
The launch focuses on areas such as heart disease risk, early detection of diabetes, mental health, and wellbeing, as well as crucial information on prostate and skin cancer. Farmers will also be informed about local support services available.
The programme consists of two assessments, including a 10-15 minute medical assessment and a 5-10 minute lifestyle assessment.
A medical assessment includes checks for: Blood pressure measurement; Waist circumference test; Cholesterol test; Blood sugar tests; and mental wellbeing evaluation.
During the lifestyle assessment, opportunities will be given for advice on the following: Smoking; Healthy eating; Physical activity; and alcohol consumption.