Why Men Shouldn't Skip Annual Exams and Preventive Screenings

You feel fine, you’re too busy, you’re too tough — we get it. Many men put off doctor visits for various reasons. Neglecting their health undermines their goals to protect themselves and their families. 

June is Men’s Health Month. In honor of the occasion, Dr. Naima Cheema at Nexclin Medicine in Roswell, Georgia, offers critical information to help you break through those stereotypes, stigmas, and barriers. Our comprehensive men’s health services cover all the bases so you can care for your health and those you love. 

Why men are masters of avoidance

According to the Cleveland Clinic studies, not only are men less likely than women to visit a doctor regularly and engage in preventive services, they put up some other alarming statistics:

A whopping 77% of men in relationships prioritize shopping with their partner over visiting the doctor.

Many men aren’t honest with their physicians. Among the 20% of men who’ve withheld the truth from their doctors, common reasons include embarrassment (46%), reluctance to modify diet or lifestyle (36%), and fear of diagnosis or discovering health issues (37%).

Growing up, 41% of men received messages that discouraged expressing health concerns, such as, “It’s not manly to express health concerns.”

While 82% of men aim to maintain health for their loved ones, only half participate in preventative health care measures.

But avoiding the white coat has its costs. Skipped check-ups can mean symptoms of potentially severe health conditions go unnoticed until they become urgent. It’s a tragic paradox: Avoidance, stemming from a desire to protect yourself, can end up being the primary source of harm.

Male-specific health concerns

In recognition of these challenges, Men’s Health Month heightens the awareness of preventable health problems and encourages early detection and treatment of diseases commonly found among men. 

Several health issues are specifically male. Testicular cancer, prostate problems, and even something as commonplace as male pattern baldness are conditions that require customized treatments and approaches unique to your physiology.

Screenings are your insurance policy

Here’s a rundown of the key screenings all men should get:

Diabetes 

Diabetes can lurk in the shadows for years, silently whittling away at your health due to the inability to process and use insulin. A simple blood test can detect levels outside healthy thresholds, giving you the jump on this chronic condition.

Cholesterol 

High cholesterol levels can lead to heart attack and stroke. Regular screening from your 30s onward can ensure you’re not inadvertently harming your heart.

Blood pressure 

Hypertension is deceptive; it has few apparent symptoms. Half the battle is detection, so catching and correcting it early can stave off severe health problems.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)

STDs don’t always alert you when you get them. Get screened with yearly STD tests if you’re sexually active, and you can make informed choices to safeguard your health and that of your partner(s).

Depression and anxiety 

Mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, can be as harmful as any physical ailment — and the two often go hand-in-hand. Annual screenings for mental health can help you identify and address the underlying causes of mood changes and physical issues.

Obesity

Obesity significantly increases the risk of various health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. It’s crucial to approach weight management with a comprehensive strategy that includes diet, exercise, and, when necessary, medical intervention to mitigate these risks and improve overall well-being.

Testicular cancer 

Testicular cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer, but early detection is key. Engage in the monthly self-check-up and ultrasound screenings when needed.

Skin cancer 

Skin cancer screening helps detect potentially life-threatening conditions, allowing you to take proactive treatment steps. If you have spots or moles that have changed, grown, bled, or oozed, get checked.

Colorectal cancer

They say 45 is the new 50 for colorectal cancer screenings that can detect precancerous polyps before they become cancerous. 

Prostate cancer 

PSA tests are a vital tool in the fight against prostate cancer, especially for those with a family history.

How men can break the health care barrier

Our Nexclin Medicine team recognizes that health is not one-size-fits-all. By advocating the importance of preventive health services, we empower men to take control of their health and future. We provide a safe space to discuss and address all health concerns.

We can work with your schedule, ease your concerns, and give you peace of mind. Call Nexclin Medicine, or schedule an appointment online today.