Opening up about health-related issues can be difficult for most men. Various factors could contribute to this, including fear, uncertainty, and the perceived notion that they’re expected to ‘Man-Up’ – seeing vulnerability as a weakness.
In a survey conducted by Cleveland Clinic, amongst males in the US, 72 percent of men said they would rather do household chores than go to the doctor. Sixty-five percent said they avoid going to the doctor for as long as possible. While 20 percent admitted they weren’t always honest with their doctors about their health because they weren’t ready to deal with the potential diagnosis if they were told the truth.
Medical avoidance, withholding information from a doctor and the consequences of delaying medical care can be dire. As far as illness goes, prevention is better than cure. With early diagnosis and timely treatment being a close second to ensure the best possible health outcomes.
The assumption that health issues only happen at a ‘certain age’ sets men up for missing early cues. Many health issues affect men of all ages, but some are almost exclusively associated with certain age groups. Medical doctor and health techpreneur, Dr Michael Mol, shares various health-related risks that men should test for as they traverse through different life stages:
Emerging Adulthood (20-40 years old)
This stage represents the transition from adolescence to full-fledged adulthood, characterised by exploration, self-discovery, and the pursuit of independence. While men are generally healthy at this age, these are the years that form the foundation of future health. The key is establishing good health habits and regular health checks. This includes blood pressure, blood sugar, eye tests, skin mapping, and cholesterol screenings. Not forgetting screenings for sexually transmitted infections, as well as periodic testicular self-exams. Consult a healthcare provider when changes occur. Self-awareness is another key component, and this includes mental health screening and incorporating mindfulness and meditation to maintain mental wellbeing.
Summit Adulthood (40-60 years old)
As men progress through this stage, the likelihood of maintaining good health is threatened because ageing itself is a risk factor for ill health. Health conditions such as cancer, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and obesity are likely to emerge. They tend to become a disease burden for older men. Tests for blood pressure, diabetes (blood sugar), and cholesterol must continue, but men must also include cancer screenings. Especially colorectal and prostate cancer. In addition to having a 1 in 5 chance of contracting prostate cancer. Black South African men are more likely to develop it at an earlier age and in an aggressive form. As men age, testosterone levels may decline, making them more susceptible to bone diseases and fractures due to their decreasing bone density. Regular bone density screenings, adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, and weight-bearing exercises are highly recommended.
Enriched Adulthood (60 years and older)
During this stage, men may experience a decline in physical function and mobility. And all the associated complications of a sedentary lifestyle. Men over 60 are at a higher risk of cancer, diabetes and coronary heart disease. While cardiovascular disease may emerge in younger years. It’s the most prominent cause of death for men aged 65 years and over. Cardiovascular disease can include various conditions such as coronary artery diseases (e.g., angina, heart attack), stroke, heart failure and hypertensive heart disease. High blood pressure can develop at any age, but the prevalence increases as men get older. Regularly screening and managing age-related health issues, healthy eating, regular exercise and staying socially connected can lower the risk of worsening symptoms or severe complications in old age.
“Men need to understand that it’s okay to take care of their physical and mental health. Which is important for overall wellbeing. Through joining a wellness rewards programme like Momentum Multiply, which provides resources and support for individuals to make sustainable lifestyle changes and rewards members for taking ownership of their overall wellness. Men can cultivate resilience and become stronger, if not just for themselves but for the people that matter most in their lives too,” says Dr Mol.
Men can benefit from adopting a healthy lifestyle at an early age to prevent disease and functional decline. Extend longevity and enhance the quality of life. Learning new ways to live a healthy, longer life and improving your health can significantly reduce the risk of getting sick.
Multiply Inspire and Engage are new products from Momentum Multiply that can help you balance mental health and physical health in pursuit of holistic wellness. The offering is created to encourage and reward you for making healthier choices and looking after your wellbeing.
As a Multiply member, you get access to amazing benefits such as a free annual health assessment and discounts or cashbacks on a wide range of products and services to help you improve your overall health.
For more information, visit multiply.co.za or contact Jnb.multiply@fleishman.co.za for any media queries.
**In Partnership with Momentum Multiply
