Did you know that compared to women, men of all ages are approximately 25% less likely to visit their doctor? June 14-20 is National Men’s Health Week, an initiative that strives to encourage early detection and awareness of men’s health issues. In honor of this observance, let’s discuss the reasons men tend to avoid the doctor’s office and what you can do to ensure that the men in your life (or you yourself!) are getting proper preventive care.
One reason is that men are less likely to see themselves as vulnerable to illness or disease. But the truth is that men have higher death rates for most of the leading causes of death, including heart disease and cancer. Preventive visits are crucial to uncover early signs or issues that could increase the risk of disease. Men should have yearly physicals, checking weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar and triglyceride levels.
Another reason that men avoid the doctor is that they feel uncomfortable or fearful about the process. Some could be putting off the discomfort of a prostate exam (recommended annually for all men over 45), or may be worried about hearing bad news. But what they don’t know could be hurting them, as many underlying health issues may not produce any symptoms.
So how can you encourage the men in your life to see a doctor? According to a survey from the American Academy of Family Physicians, 80% of men said that their spouse or significant other influences their decision to seek medical care. While I don’t condone nagging, a little encouragement may be all it takes to ensure your husband, father, brother or friend gets the preventive care he needs. And if you’re the man being nudged, listen up! It could literally add years to your life.