By Justin Ebert, PA-C, MCHC Chief Medical Officer
As a family medicine provider, I see patients of all ages and backgrounds. Although every individual is unique, there are prevailing trends. For example, men are less likely to talk about their health or seek care from a medical provider than women.
There are many reasons for this. Persistent, but changing, social and cultural expectations emphasize the importance of men being tough and keeping concerns to themselves. Many men avoid talking about how they feel, both physically and emotionally.
Women, on the other hand, have natural entry points into the healthcare system. They visit their OB/GYN at least annually to access everything from birth control to pap smears and other care. The same isn’t true for men. As I like to joke with patients, we’ll wait until our leg is falling off before we go in – and even then, it’s only at the urging of a partner or family member.
Routine preventive care is for everyone
Regular check-ups detect many issues before they become life-threatening, like high blood pressure and prediabetes. Annual exams are also opportunities to catch up on recommended screenings.
Before age 40, men should have basic blood tests done every year to evaluate their overall health and establish a baseline for future reference. Everyone should also be screened for HIV and hepatitis once in their lifetime. Then, beginning at age 45 (or earlier depending on your personal risk factors), men should begin regular colon cancer screenings. Men should also talk with their providers about prostate cancer screenings.
Because many men are under the mistaken impression that these screenings are incredibly invasive and uncomfortable, they avoid going to the doctor. In reality, most people do not need a rectal exam, and colonoscopies are simple, routine procedures that typically cause no discomfort. You can always ask about alternative screening methods to find one you are comfortable with. It’s important to have a frank discussion with your providers about the risks and benefits of each option.
If you’re concerned about screenings or what an exam will entail, talk with your medical provider. We are happy to discuss your questions, both about your health and about the form your healthcare takes.
Talking about mental health
The stigmas surrounding men’s physical health often apply to mental health – being tough and not talking about feelings of any kind. Medical providers often include a simple mental health screening as part of routine appointments to help identify issues and explore ways to address them.
Mental health issues can show up in a variety of ways, including anger, withdrawal, consuming excessive amounts of alcohol or caffeine, and difficulty sleeping. These issues are very common, especially for men who work in high-stress jobs, such as first responders or hospice workers. Whatever you are experiencing, help is available.
You don’t necessarily need therapy or medication, although many people find those resources helpful. Simply talking through your concerns with a provider can be a source of relief, and your provider will share other beneficial options to consider.
Comparison
For generations, women have compared themselves to societal ideals modeled on TV and in movies and magazines. Now, the ever-present social media feed has turned the spotlight on men, too. We’re routinely seeing men with muscled bodies, chiseled features, and “perfect” lives, making us feel discouraged when we don’t measure up.
Remember: Social media isn’t real. It’s other people’s highlight reel, not their day-to-day world. Want proof? Check out the people in aisles next time you go grocery shopping! We’re all just normal people doing our best. Most of us don’t have six-pack abs, and no one has a perfect life.
Take a step toward better health
I encourage men to think about one action they can take toward better health. Even small positive steps toward eating well, limiting alcohol, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly add up.
I also encourage you to receive routine care from a medical provider. No matter how healthy your lifestyle, issues like hypertension or high cholesterol can exist without showing any initial symptoms. This is just one of the reasons why regular check-ups and routine screenings are so important. If it’s been a while, find a time to schedule an annual exam. If you don’t have a provider, contact a health center like MCHC to establish one.
When you go to your appointment, please know that your provider is there to listen, whether you’re wondering whether a vaccine is right for you, worrying about a suspicious mole, or frustrated by a persistent ache or pain. Your provider would much rather talk with you about an issue while it’s small than have you wait to bring it up until months or years too late. Many of the issues common among men today are preventable or treatable. Receiving regular medical care is one of the most important steps in prevention and better health.
Justin Ebert is a physician assistant and the chief medical officer at MCHC Health Centers, a community-based and patient-directed organization that provides comprehensive primary healthcare services as well as supportive services such as education and translation that promote access to healthcare. MCHC includes Hillside Health Center and Dora Street Health Center in Ukiah, Little Lake Health Center in Willits, and Lakeview Health Center in Lakeport.
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