Statistically, men are less likely to go to the doctor for regular preventive treatments compared to women. In fact, in a Cleveland Clinic survey, only 50% of men engage in preventive care. This is a staggering and concerning statistic. Preventive health for men is critical for the early detection of highly treatable diseases. Testicular and prostate and colon cancer, for example, are more treatable if detected early. If not diagnosed early the outcome can be fatal. Routine care also screens for common medical problems such as high blood pressure, cholesterol and abnormal glucose levels. Treating these conditions early on can have significant health impacts.
What is Preventive Care for Men?
Preventive or routine care is any care you receive from a medical provider with the intent to prevent disease or medical problems before they become serious.
Preventive care includes:
-
Annual check-ups
-
Immunizations
-
Screenings (colonoscopy, blood pressure, cholesterol, testicular and prostate, diabetes, etc.)
Why are Men Less Likely to Seek Preventive Care?
Research shows that men are less likely to go to the doctor because:
Conflict of Clinic Hours and Work
Men cited avoiding going to the doctor due to not wanting to take time off work.
Communication
Many men find it hard to communicate and disclose information to their doctors. Discomfort in discussing certain topics was also a common response in the Cleveland Clinic survey, leading men to admit to being dishonest with their doctors. Additionally, men also stated that being conditioned to not complain about health issues was a factor in not seeking preventive care.
Finances
Concern about missing work and the financial burden of paying medical bills may also play a role in why men avoid going to the doctor.
The Importance of Preventive Care for Men
It can be easy to make excuses to avoid going to the doctor, but the reality is that it may save your life. Preventive care visits, at least on a yearly basis, are essential for the early detection of illnesses and diseases. When caught early, most diseases are more treatable than if detected in later stages.
Stop Making Excuses and Book an Appointment
It’s easy to make excuses to avoid going to the doctor, but none of them are worth risking your life. No more excuses. Book your preventive care visit today.