It is called DENIAL...and I would guess 85% avoid going for yearly checkups...do to fear that they will be told something is wrong..Nut it up and get in for a checkup at least every2-3 yrs
By Larry Axmaker, EdD, PhD
Most women seem to have no problem making an appointment to see their doctor for a physical exam - even if they're not ill, bleeding, or broken at the time. Men are much less likely to have a physical exam. Is that because men are inherently healthier? Are men really indestructible? Or is that belief only in their own minds?
Each year American men make 150 million fewer doctor visits than women. The discrepancy occurs in all age, education, and socioeconomic groups. An American Medical Association (AMA) study concluded that men don't go to their doctor for a variety of reasons including fear, denial, embarrassment, and threats to their masculinity. Does being tough help? Maybe the most significant data has to do with lifespan. Do tough men live longer?
As most everybody knows, women live longer than men, by as much as 10 percent, and the gap is increasing. So much for men being tougher. Men tend to take pretty good care of their cars and computers, maybe a healthy body is next on their list. Our culture perpetuates the myth of male invincibility. Most cities now have Women's Health Centers. How many cities have a Men's Health Center? Not many.
"I Don't Want No Doctor Poking Around Me!" Top 10 Excuses
How many of these typically male statements have you heard so far this week? Where do you fit into this Top Ten excuses for not seeing a doctor regularly?
When the Doctor Says: "Sorry, Too Late"
If every serious physical condition or disease had visible symptoms and obvious pain, you might be more willing to see a doctor. But many diseases are relatively symptom-free until it may be too late. Early detection and treatment can keep your doctor from saying, "Sorry, Sam, if only we'd known sooner."
If your health has been generally good, an exam every two or three years is probably enough when you are under 40. Between 40 and 49 every two years, and yearly exams are recommended after 50. If you're not sure what may be best for you - ask your doctor. Will regular exams guarantee a long and healthy life? Of course not, but it will sure improve your chances and add a healthy amount of peace of mind.
Exams can help keep you in tune, find potential problems early, and keep you focused on your future health. Physical checkups can't take the place of common sense, however. Think in terms of what you can do to enhance your health on a day by day basis.
Preventive exams can help you treat or avoid:
By Larry Axmaker, EdD, PhD
Most women seem to have no problem making an appointment to see their doctor for a physical exam - even if they're not ill, bleeding, or broken at the time. Men are much less likely to have a physical exam. Is that because men are inherently healthier? Are men really indestructible? Or is that belief only in their own minds?
Each year American men make 150 million fewer doctor visits than women. The discrepancy occurs in all age, education, and socioeconomic groups. An American Medical Association (AMA) study concluded that men don't go to their doctor for a variety of reasons including fear, denial, embarrassment, and threats to their masculinity. Does being tough help? Maybe the most significant data has to do with lifespan. Do tough men live longer?
As most everybody knows, women live longer than men, by as much as 10 percent, and the gap is increasing. So much for men being tougher. Men tend to take pretty good care of their cars and computers, maybe a healthy body is next on their list. Our culture perpetuates the myth of male invincibility. Most cities now have Women's Health Centers. How many cities have a Men's Health Center? Not many.
"I Don't Want No Doctor Poking Around Me!" Top 10 Excuses
How many of these typically male statements have you heard so far this week? Where do you fit into this Top Ten excuses for not seeing a doctor regularly?
- There's nothing wrong that I can't handle.
- No blood, no foul.
- It only hurts when I laugh.
- Bite the bullet.
- I'll be OK, just give me a minute or two.
- What do doctors know?
- No pain, no gain.
- Sure I'll see a doctor - when pigs fly.
- It'll probably heal all by itself.
- Big boys don't cry.
When the Doctor Says: "Sorry, Too Late"
If every serious physical condition or disease had visible symptoms and obvious pain, you might be more willing to see a doctor. But many diseases are relatively symptom-free until it may be too late. Early detection and treatment can keep your doctor from saying, "Sorry, Sam, if only we'd known sooner."
- One of the most dangerous examples is prostate cancer. No man in his right mind enjoys a prostate exam, but a few seconds of discomfort can be a life saver.
There are three types of prostate exams - the more common digital rectal exam (DRE) which is conducted exactly the way it sounds, the prostate specific antigen test (PSA), which is a blood test used in conjunction with the DRE, and the biopsy where tissue samples are taken from the prostate.
- Colon cancer can often be detected by Sigmoidoscopy, which is done be inserting a tube into the lower part of the large intestine. This lifesaving procedure can be uncomfortable and embarrassing for men.
- Heart disease usually develops over many years and increasing blood pressure and high cholesterol can easily go undetected without regular checkups. Even the simplest physical exam will pick up on cardiovascular problems and start you on the road to good heart health.
If your health has been generally good, an exam every two or three years is probably enough when you are under 40. Between 40 and 49 every two years, and yearly exams are recommended after 50. If you're not sure what may be best for you - ask your doctor. Will regular exams guarantee a long and healthy life? Of course not, but it will sure improve your chances and add a healthy amount of peace of mind.
Exams can help keep you in tune, find potential problems early, and keep you focused on your future health. Physical checkups can't take the place of common sense, however. Think in terms of what you can do to enhance your health on a day by day basis.
Preventive exams can help you treat or avoid:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Tuberculosis
- Heart disease
- Lung, prostate, colon, and other cancers
- If it hurts, slow down or stop. If the pain doesn't go away after a reasonable time, call your doctor.
- Wear your seatbelt. Injuries and death are reduced for those using seat belts.
- Eat in moderation. Overeating is a factor in numerous diseases and unpleasant health conditions.
- Stay physically active. Muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons, and even your brain will benefit from exercise.
- Get enough sleep. Find the right amount for you. Too little or too much can cause health problems.
- Drink plenty of water. Six to eight glasses a day is about right, and more is needed when your are active.
