Flipping the Script
PHOTO: Statepoint, © monkeybusinessimages / iStock via Getty Images Plus
Traditionally, men have not taken a proactive role in their health care. Read about why that’s so—and how to turn the tide.
Chances are more women will read this article than men. Yes, when it comes to men’s health, it is usually the wives who are who are scheduling appointments and doing the reminding. But health care providers are seeing incremental increases in their male patients taking more of an initiative in their own health.
“I pretty much keep track of my own medications and doctor appointments,” said Chuck Wyble, “but always with the help and ‘supervision’ of my wife. I get a lot of, “and don’t forget to ask the doctor about…”
The Millville man readily admits he is not very good at remembering to ask such questions even though his wife mentioned it right before leaving for his appointment.
According to Inspira Medical Group family practice physician Douglas Hargrave, D.O., Wyble is not unique, and many men may be reluctant to take complete responsibility for their own health because of culture or habit. Others fear unpleasant news that would ultimately threaten their independence and lifestyle, and some simply find it difficult in their schedule to make the time.
“If someone feels fine, they assume they are fine,” explained Dr. Hargrave, adding that some men may feel uneasy in medical settings or are concerned about getting an upsetting diagnosis. He says focusing on prevention rather than crisis and building trust with your health care provider and care helps break that cycle.
“Some believe in toughing it out or only visiting a doctor for serious issues,” he said. “For others, lacking a primary care relationship makes scheduling a visit feel unnecessary or unfamiliar until unignorable symptoms arise.”
But there is a change of attitude and men are engaging more with physicians and getting regular testing.
“Yes, slowly but steadily we’re seeing more individuals prioritize preventive care, especially younger generations who are more comfortable talking about their mental health and well-being,” he said, adding that easier access through telemedicine and workplace wellness programs has also helped. “There’s still progress to make, though; many continue to delay routine care, which means conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes may go undetected until they’re at an advanced stage.”
The greatest concern is that many serious conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes and certain cancers, progress silently for years. Without regular screenings, these conditions often aren’t detected until symptoms appear, when treatment can be more complex. Early detection allows for simpler, more effective interventions and can prevent life-threatening complications.
Wyble, who will soon turn 70, says keeping healthy is a fairly high priority. “Like a lot of men my age, I have sugar, heart, cholesterol and blood pressure issues and take medication for all of them,” he says, adding that taking medications have become a part of the conversation with friends.
“One of my favorite questions I ask my peers is ‘how many pills do you take every day?’ Some of my friends are amazingly healthy and take very few, some take a lot more. All take something it seems.”
Wyble notes his primary concern is eyesight and maintaining mobility. “Being able to see distances, drive at night without issue, and also read without fumbling for glasses is great,” he says, “And not needing any aid in walking, being able to exercise, play golf, and do other simple tasks is a main goal of mine.”
With his cardiologist’s encouragement he says he is diligent about exercising, but could make healthier food choices
The greatest risk is losing the opportunity to prevent disease before it starts. Conditions like high blood pressure or prediabetes may be managed more effectively when caught early, but ignoring them can lead to life-threatening issues, such as heart attack, stroke, kidney disease or cancer. Regular screenings give people the opportunity to stay ahead of health concerns rather than react once damage is already done.
Dr. Hargrave offers this advice for wives regarding non-compliant husbands. “Lead with empathy, not frustration,” he suggests, adding that it helps to remind your loved one that taking care of their health isn’t just for them—it’s also for the people who care about them. “Offer to make appointments together, share your own experiences with preventive care or frame it as a team goal rather than a lecture. Gentle encouragement goes further than pressure.”
HEALTH CARE GUIDE, Especially for Men
According to Dr. DouglasHargrave the following symptoms should never be ignored:
• Chest pain, shortness of breath or unexplained fatigue
• Persistent abdominal pain, blood in the stool or changes in bowel habits
• Difficulty urinating or blood in the urine
• Sudden weight loss, night sweats or prolonged fever
• Noticeable changes in mood, energy or concentration
“Paying attention to these symptoms and seeking care early can help your care team identify potential problems before they become life-threatening,” he advises. “Delaying care for chest pain could mean missing the early signs of heart disease. Ignoring changes in urination might delay the diagnosis of prostate or bladder issues. Overlooking persistent fatigue could allow thyroid disease, diabetes or even depression to worsen. These are conditions that respond best when treated early; delaying treatment can lead to lasting complications.”
What would be urgent? What could wait?
Certain symptoms should never be ignored by anyone, male or female, and require immediate medical attention. These include chest pain, shortness of breath, sudden weakness, dizziness, severe abdominal pain or signs of a strokestroke. For any of these, call 9-1-1 or go to an emergency room right away.
Other concerns, such as ongoing fatigue, mild urinary symptoms or gradual weight changes, are not emergencies but still warrant timely evaluation. Scheduling a follow-up visit with your primary care doctor can help identify potential problems early and prevent them from progressing.
Five Most Important Things to Maintain Your Health
1. Get an annual checkup. Prevention is the foundation of long-term health.
2. Know your numbers. Keep track of your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar and weight.
3. Stay active. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
4. Eat for your heart and mind. Choose fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains while limiting processed food and added sugars.
5. Prioritize your mental health. Stress, anxiety and depression can affect your physical well-being and should be managed with the same attention as any other medical condition.
Additionally, Dr. Hargrave recommends cutting down or quitting smoking, or the use of nicotine products and limiting or avoiding alcohol as highly beneficial changes.
What regular tests need to be done? When and how frequently?
A yearly checkup with your health care provider is one of the best ways to stay ahead of potential health issues. During that visit you will get your blood pressure checked, and depending on age, medical history and risk factors you may receive orders for routine blood tests.
The following screenings are also recommended:
• Cholesterol and blood sugar (diabetes): Screening should be done every 3-5 years starting in your mid-30s, or more often if you have risk factors such as obesity, high blood pressure or a family history of heart disease or diabetes.
• Colorectal cancer: Begin regular screenings at age 45 or earlier if you have risk factors, either with a colonoscopy every 10 years or a stool-based test at recommended intervals.
• Prostate cancer: Men should discuss prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing with their doctor around age 50, or earlier if at higher risk.
• Lung cancer: Screenings are recommended annually for adults aged 50-80 with a history of heavy smoking who currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years.
• Mental health: Your emotional well-being is just as important as your physical health. Be honest with your health care provider about any concerns such as depression and anxiety.
