HEALTH SHOULDN’T BE SECRET MEN’S BUSINESS

MEN CAN OFTEN OVERLOOK THEIR HEALTH, BUT TAKING A PROACTIVE APPROACH AND HAVING REGULAR CHECK-UPS WITH YOUR GP CAN MEAN A LONGER, HEALTHIER LIFE.

Compared to Australian women, Australian men visit the GP far less often, have shorter visits and only attend in the latter stages of disease, when treatment is more complicated - a worrying trend that can be easily overcome.

Regular health checks play an important part in improving men’s overall health, and increasing longevity for a number of reasons:

• Early detection of health problems - regular check-ups often uncover health problems in the initial stages, when they are easier to treat. Early detection of conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or prostate cancer can greatly improve the chances of successful treatment.

• Regular health checks also assist with improving overall health. They identify lifestyle habits that may be contributing to poor health, such as poor diet, lack of exercise, or smoking. By addressing these habits, men can improve their overall health and reduce the risk of serious health problems.

• Preventing chronic diseases is far easier when symptoms are detected early on. Identifying and treating chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer can greatly assist in their management and overall prognosis, improving quality of life and even life expectancy.

• Mental health support - according to the Australian Institute of Family Studies, up to 25 percent of men experience a diagnosed mental health disorder in their lifetime. A regular health check provides an opportunity for men to discuss any mental health concerns they may have with their GP, and access support and treatment for conditions such as depression and anxiety earlier.

Having a good General Practitioner that you are comfortable with, and who is familiar with your medical history is a key part to improving your health. Notions of masculinity, and a tendency to think ‘she’ll be right’ can be factors in men’s decisions not to have regular health checks. A good GP can become a trusted source of information and support, making you feel more comfortable discussing personal health concerns.

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) suggests talking to friends and family to get recommendations when looking for a new GP, consider the practice location and opening times, whether they bulkbill - if cost is a concern, and most importantly finding a good rapport, as you will need to be comfortable discussing a range of health issues.

By making regular health checks a priority, men can take a proactive approach to maintaining good health, and even prevent serious problems from developing into the future.