South African men are facing a silent crisis that continues to unfold with alarming consequences. A culture steeped in fear and stigma regarding health has led to avoidable deaths and declining life expectancy among men, reports Cape {town} Etc.
On average, South African men live seven years less than their female counterparts, with life expectancy at a mere 62 years compared to 69 for women.
This Men’s Health Month, Bestmed Medical Scheme is advocating for a critical shift in how men perceive their healthcare, rallying them to take control of their well-being.
‘Too many men only visit a doctor when it’s already too late, We need to normalise proactive care because prevention is far more powerful than cure,’ warns Dr Lee Moses, Medical Advisor at Bestmed.
This message rings true against a backdrop of troubling statistics: a high rate of late-stage diagnoses for preventable cancers and chronic diseases due to a reluctance to seek help.
The stats speak volumes
One of the most pressing issues is the alarming number of late-stage diagnoses for prostate and testicular cancers. Prostate cancer, the most common malignancy affecting South African men, is highly manageable in its early stages.
Nevertheless, the dread of undergoing exams particularly rectal examinations discourages men from seeking timely medical attention. ‘Times have changed, a simple PSA blood test is now an initial screening option for men over 40. More invasive tests are only necessary if red flags are raised,’ Moses said.
Moreover, men are urged to conduct regular testicular self-exams and participate in annual prostate screenings to facilitate early detection, potentially averting life-threatening situations.
The hidden threats
Yet, cancer is not the only concern. Men are disproportionately affected by a slew of chronic illnesses including diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and mental health disorders, often diagnosed at later stages due to fears around seeking healthcare. Lifestyle-related risks such as poor diet, sedentary behaviour, and substance abuse – exacerbate these conditions, leading to adverse outcomes.
Despite significant mental health challenges, men rarely seek help for issues such as depression and anxiety, largely due to societal stigma. This leads to escalating suicide rates among men and a concerning rise in substance abuse. Additionally, the gap in HIV and TB testing remains wide, with men less inclined to pursue testing and treatment.
Flipping the script
Moses urges men to embrace check-ups not as a sign of weakness but as a demonstration of responsibility. ‘It’s a strength and it’s how we stay alive for the people who count on us,’
He advocates for small yet important steps men can take:
- Schedule annual health screenings
- Adopt a balanced diet and exercise regularly
- Manage stress and prioritise mental well-being
- Stay informed and proactive about health
‘When detected early, most health problems are manageable or even reversible. Men, your health matters. Speak up. Show up. Live longer,’ Moses concludes.
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