It is a known fact that men are less likely to seek healthcare than women. There’s a culture and media-driven expectation for men to be strong and, like super-heroes, rarely show signs of weakness. This socially ingrained mindset subconsciously trains men to believe that going to the doctor exhibits weakness.

A survey conducted by The Cleveland Clinic confirmed this trend, finding that 40 percent of men go to the doctor only when they have a serious health issue, and never go for routine checkups. This number is far lower than women’s frequency of doctor visits. Needless to say, it’s a concerning figure.

Another trend indicates that men also tend to exhibit a fear of diagnosis. About 21 percent of men admit to avoiding the doctor because they are too nervous to find out what might be wrong. It seems that the pressure to conceal weakness is so strong that it can even lead men into a state of denial, and again, this is a worrying statistic. To be clear: ignoring your medical problems will not make them go away.

Where to Start

Men often experience health difficulties that can go unnoticed or neglected. Men are encouraged to seek necessary testing, medical treatment, and/or advice to be aware of any underlying health issues.

Know Your Numbers

Some basic tests that can measure crucial indicators of overall health, specifically related to risk for heart attack, stroke, and diabetes include the following:

  • Blood pressure
  • Blood sugar levels
  • Cholesterol level
  • Weight including BMI

Immunizations

The most widely recommended vaccinations provide protection against diseases that can be life-threatening. Immunizations needed as an adult male are determined by factors such as age, lifestyle, high-risk conditions, prior vaccinations, and travel plans.

Just the Facts

Partly due to health behaviors, men have a shorter life expectancy than women. This gap has only continued to widen over time, and men are currently expected to live 5 years less than women, on average. Here are four noteworthy facts to be aware of:

  • Prostate Cancer
    Prostate cancer affects one in nine men. According to the American Cancer Society, there are about 175,000 new cases of prostate cancer diagnosed each year, and prostate cancer is the most common cancer among American men.
  • Mental Health
    Mental health is one of the most stigmatized issues affecting men. Even super-heroes feel depressed sometimes. Many men, perhaps more than we think, struggle with their mental health and the stigma that surrounds it. The American Psychological Association reports that 30.6% of men have suffered from depression in their lifetime. Again, men’s hesitation to seek care may be worsening this issue.
  • Lifestyle Choices
    Statistics clearly indicate that men drink more heavily and smoke more frequently than women. While habitual drinking and smoking can have severe health implications, drugs can also cause issues ranging from lung and heart disease to liver problems and preventable accidents.
  • Diet and Exercise
    The is no denying that men make less healthy choices in the kitchen. Women eat far more fruits and vegetables than men, while men prefer meat and dairy. The key is to enjoy red meat and sugary foods in moderation while adding nutrient rich accompaniments. This approach, combined with moderate exercise, can lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels significantly.