Written by Dr Aisha Harris (pictured in featured photo)
Almost 60% of men DO NOT go to the doctor! That is not good for their health or longevity. Regularly going to the doctor saves lives and prevents medical problems and complications. Men are more likely to be sicker and die younger if they do not take care of themselves. For many this information is not new because the stereotype is real and re-affirmed often; men go to the doctor less than women. But this can change and should change because men need doctors too!
The barriers to men going to the doctor are valid and overlap with many challenges that women have, but more women find their way to the doctor to get check-ups, to get screenings and to manage chronic medical problems. If you are a man that has not had a check-up or physical in a year or two, it’s time to get that check-up. If you have a long-term or chronic medical problem that you know is uncontrolled or not managed, then you need to visit your doctor. If you know a man that needs a check-up or chronic medical problem managed, nudge them and say “hey, have you been to the doctor?”.
The trend of men going to the doctor less than women has increased their risk of cancer by 17% when compared to women, and increased their risk of heart disease by 50% when compared to women. Just being a man leads to less preventative screenings and care which, in turn, can lead to late discovery and management of medical problems.
According to a Cleveland Clinic study, over 60% of men said going to the doctor was not convenient. This is not unique to men, but finding a medical office that works for your lifestyle, schedule and medical needs is important. Looking at different types of clinics from hospital-associated offices to direct primary care clinics can help you determine which system or setting is right for you and your goals.
Over 40% of men say they were taught not to complain, which highlights our societal pressure on men to figure things out and not voice their personal concerns. Creating safe spaces for men to speak honestly and openly about their physical and mental health is important for the well-being of men, but also the strength of our communities.
So men, all men, young and old, should reflect on their health and medical journey. See if their health access and health care are in line with their goals and needs. Check their to-do list and see if it includes taking care of their body and mind. Set aside the stereotypes and try to find ways to take care of themselves – because men need doctors too.
Men need screenings for blood pressure and high blood pressure management. Men need diabetes screenings and diabetes management. Men are not immune to medical problems and not going to or avoiding the doctor does not mean someone is problem free. It can easily mean they just do not know they have the problem or complication yet.
Men need prostate cancer and colon cancer screenings. Men need depression screenings. Men need management of chronic medical problems before they have complications that are irreversible or alter their quality of life and function. Men need doctors too. So, ask yourself, “do I need to get a check-up?”.
Written by Dr Aisha Harris, MD is a Flint native and board-certified family medicine doctor at Harris Family Health in Flint, Michigan. Harris Family Health is a membership-based clinic that provides personalized and full primary care to adults and children. Learn more about Harris Family Health by visiting www.harrisfamilyhealth.com. Feel free to submit health questions to Dr Harris via theflintcourier@gmail.com.
