Why Don’t Men Go to the Doctor?

There is an ongoing stereotype regarding men and routine doctor visits, and, sadly, the research supports this — men are 60% less likely to go to the doctor. 
 
Not only are they less likely to attend routine annual physicals, but they are also less likely than women to seek medical attention when they do feel ill. On top of that, even when they do go to the doctor, nearly 40% of men withhold information from their physician.
 
Unsurprisingly, the routine screenings and check-ups that men are prone to skip could identify issues, which when caught early, could potentially be treated and even add years to their lives.
 
I’m quite passionate about this issue; it’s personal. Sixteen years ago, I lost my father to an illness that could have been managed if caught early – if he had been going to his routine visits with a primary care physician. If he had spoken up and told his family what was going on, he may still be here with us today.
 

There are five prominent reasons for men to see their doctor at least once a year. 

1. High Blood Pressure: Many men have it and don’t even know it. High blood pressure or Hypertension is commonly referred to as the “silent killer” because it generally doesn’t cause symptoms until it’s too late. However, if caught early, it can be controlled and treated. Better yet, routine screenings, physical exams, a healthy diet, and regular physical exercise can help prevent this from even occurring; allowing you to optimize your health and longevity.

2. Stress: Men are twice as likely as women to suffer from work-related stress. Learning how to recognize the signs of excessive stress can prompt someone to do something about it; stop it from getting worse. More importantly, learning how to cope with everyday stressors can prevent them from becoming excessive in the first place. Using regular physical exercise, meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness are great ways to help prevent and manage stress.

3. Coronary Artery Disease: According to NCBI, 8.3% of men have CAD, compared to the 6.1% of women. The incidence of CAD only increases as men age and can be worsened by a variety of risk factors, which is why routine visits with your primary care doctor are so important for screening and prevention methods.

4. Cancer: Whether it’s prostate cancer, colon cancer, or another form of cancer, it can be detected early through regular screenings. Some of these tests are recommended once a year and others every few years. Nevertheless, routine screening is the best way to detect them early.

5. Leadership: Men can be independently minded, but men who go to the doctor influence other men to go to the doctor, and this encourages your crew to be proactive about your health; mental and physical.

No matter how strong or successful a man appears, sometimes they need help – they are human, after all. You know your body best and if you feel that something is off, voice it – please, talk to your physician about it.

Even if you think you’re in fantastic health, you really can’t afford to avoid that annual physical exam. If you don’t have a doctor’s appointment set on your calendar, today is the day to make that call.

Men, we encourage you to take the necessary steps to maintain your health and even optimize it!

Ladies, if we value the men in our lives, it is also up to us to advocate for them, for their health, and for their quality of life!

No matter who does it, take the next step to managing your healthcare & optimizing your quality of life - connect with us today for your Complimentary Consultation!