Headlines Health and Wellness

Men, you need to go to the doctor

Written by Dr. Aisha Harris

Not going to the doctor does not mean there is nothing wrong. Let’s talk about men for a little.

There is more known about men’s health because for years men dominated the science field and there have been more medical studies that included men.

Year after year surveys show that women visit the doctor more than men. According to a CDC report, women are 33% more likely to visit a doctor than men.

Society understands male health more, yet men are not going to the doctor like they should.

Yes, schedules are busy and there is uncertainty with going to the doctor and getting medical information about yourself, but that does not mean we should skip out on health care.

So let’s talk about the top concerns in men’s health since it is November, Men’s Health Awareness Month.

We often speak about cardiovascular health or heart health which is often additionally connected to high blood pressure and diabetes. Heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes are some of the most common medical problems men are diagnosed with. Managing these problems and taking the preventative steps to decrease the risk for complications like heart attacks and strokes is important.

Cancers are another concern for many men, with prostate cancer being the second leading cause of death in men. Men have prostate glands. So screening for this cancer is unique to men and should done on a regular basis starting in their 40s or 50s, depending risks factors.

Mental health does not get highlighted enough in men’s health either. Depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders occur more frequently than people think in men. There are many options to help treat and manage mental health disorders include medications and therapy.

Men should be opting into help just like women so they can optimize their health. Because, unfortunately, when it comes to suicide men are more likely to complete a suicide attempt.

Both physical and mental health needs to be prioritized in men so complications including death are prevented.

African American men are at increased risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease,

prostate cancer, strokes, asthma and much more. There are many factors that contribute to these increased risks, but knowing is the first step, and acting to prioritize your health is the next step.

If you or another male you know has not been to the doctor in a while, encourage them to make an appointment with their primary care doctor, or schedule a new patient appointment with a doctor near them.

Screenings and preventative care are important to catch things early and prevent medical problems. Chronic care management is important to prevent complications and also appropriately manage a medical concerns to stay health and improve quality of life.

Remember, not going to the doctor does not mean everything is OK.

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 theflintcouriernews@gmail.com.

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