It’s easy to put off going to the doctor – and men are notorious for doing so. These crucial medical examinations might help them regain control of their health.
While there are signs of improvement, many men continue to forgo routine screenings that might help prevent or assist in the early diagnosis of a variety of diseases and health concerns, ranging from bowel and skin cancer to
diabetes and depression.
Men live 4.2 years less than women, according to government statistics.
Men are also more likely than women to die at a younger age from heart disease, as well as from liver disease and cancer.
Here are some things to look out for.
Heart
Every day, 118 Australians die from coronary heart disease, with men being afflicted 40 percent more than women.
The Heart Foundation recommends a Medicare-funded Heart Health Check with a GP starting at the age of 45 — or 30 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Blood pressure, cholesterol, health history, food, physical activity, how much you drink or smoke, and any family history of heart disease are all covered in this 20-minute exam.
If you’re at risk for a heart attack or stroke, your doctor can help you take steps to lower your risk.
Skin
According to Cancer Council public health committee chair Anita Dessaix, two out of every three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70, and Australia is the world’s melanoma capital.
“Men over 40 often believe their skin is damaged and that there is no sense in caring for it,” Anita explains.
“Skin damage accumulates over time, and men are at a considerably higher risk if they work outside or participate in sports like golf or other outdoor activities that demand long amounts of time outside.”
Early indications of cancer can be detected with a skin check.
“See your doctor if you detect any changes, such as a spot that changes shape or color, or a sore that doesn’t heal,” Anita advises.
Bowel
Bowel cancer affects roughly one in every eleven men at some point in their lives, with about 8400 men diagnosed each year.
According to Bowel Cancer Australia, about 9% of them are under the age of 50.
The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program is a crucial step in the prevention of bowel cancer.
“Bowel cancer is one of the top five most common malignancies in men,” Anita explains, emphasizing the importance of the national bowel cancer screening program.
Every two years, Australians aged 50 to 75 have a home test.
“It’s a non-invasive, at-home test that looks for blood traces in a stool,” Anita explains.
“A positive result doesn’t mean you automatically have bowel cancer, but it does require further checks.
“So, when your test comes in the mail, don’t toss it in the trash or set it aside – take it.”
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In Australia, someone is diagnosed with diabetes every five minutes.
The most common kind of diabetes is type 2, with rates somewhat higher in men.
Diabetes raises the risk of amputation and heart disease and is a leading cause of preventable blindness.
The Diabetes Australia risk calculator will help you figure out if you’re at a higher risk of getting diabetes.
If this is the case, ask your doctor about a fasting blood glucose test.
Type 2 diabetes can be delayed and prevented by making lifestyle changes such as keeping a healthy weight, exercising regularly, eating healthy foods, monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol, and not smoking.
Mental health
There is no standard mental health screening advised, however Beyond Blue’s anxiety and depression checklist asks ten questions that can indicate whether you need help and should see your doctor.
“Mental health concerns can arise with major life transitions, such as a relationship breakup, relocating to a new city or country, beginning work, or retiring,” explains Beyond Blue principal clinical adviser Dr Grant Blashki.
“After the birth of a first child, we also detect increased rates of depression in men.”
It’s a red flag if you have negative thoughts that interfere with your daily life, if you’re catastrophizing and anxious about everything, and it lasts for a few weeks.
“It’s a red sign if you have negative thoughts that interfere with your day-to-day life, if you’re catastrophizing and anxious about everything, and it lasts for a couple of weeks.”
“Speak with your doctor, who can assist you in developing a mental health plan, connect you with Medicare-subsidized psychologist consultations, and advise you on the importance of getting enough sleep and eating well, exercising regularly, and establishing a daily routine.”
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Prostate
One in every six men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer by the age of 85, and more than 63 percent of cases are detected in men over 65.
After the age of 50, your risk increases, as does your risk if you have a family history of prostate, breast, or ovarian cancer.
Urinating frequently, having difficulty passing urine, a slow, intermittent flow of urine, or incontinence are all possible symptoms.
Urinary pain, blood in the urine or sperm, and back or pelvic pain are all signs of advanced prostate cancer.
If you’re experiencing symptoms, make an appointment with your doctor for a PSA blood test.
An MRI may be recommended by your doctor.
Breasts
Every year, about 150 men in Australia are diagnosed with breast cancer.
After the age of 50, the majority of men are diagnosed with prostate cancer.
“About 80% of men are unaware that males can develop breast cancer – there is a lack of knowledge,” says BCNA spokesman Professor John Boyages.
“Approximately 80% of patients have a tumor on one side, whereas 15% have nipple alterations or discharge.
“If you discover a hard lump, consult your doctor, who will likely order an ultrasound and maybe a biopsy.”