November is Men’s Health Month in the UK, a time dedicated to raising awareness around men’s health issues and encouraging men to take proactive steps towards better well-being. Central to this movement is Movember, a global campaign that began in 2003, which encourages men to grow moustaches each November as a way to start conversations and raise funds for men’s health issues, particularly prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention.
The statistics around men’s health issues are striking. On average, men in the UK live nearly four years less than women, with higher rates of heart disease, cancer, and mental health challenges. Men are also statistically less likely to seek help when they’re unwell, due to factors like stigma, social expectations, or simply not prioritising their own health. This blog focuses on the key areas of men’s health, including common health issues to be aware of, the importance of regular check-ups, and signs to watch for that can help with early detection.
Key Health Concerns for Men to Watch:
1. Prostate Cancer :
– Facts: Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the UK, with around one in eight men diagnosed in their lifetime. It’s especially common in men over 50 and in those with a family history of the disease.
– Signs to Watch: Early prostate cancer rarely shows symptoms, but later signs can include difficulty urinating, a weak or interrupted flow of urine, and needing to urinate more frequently, particularly at night.
– What to Do: Men over 50, or over 45 if they have a family history or are of African or Caribbean descent, should discuss prostate screening options with their GP. The two main screening methods are the PSA blood test and a digital rectal exam (DRE).
2. Testicular Cancer :
– Facts: Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in younger men, especially those aged 15-49. Early detection is vital, as testicular cancer is highly treatable when caught early.
– Signs to Watch: Men should look for lumps or swelling in the testicles, changes in size or shape, and any discomfort or ache in the lower abdomen or scrotum.
– What to Do: Monthly self-exams are recommended. Checking for unusual lumps and seeing a GP if anything feels different can lead to early detection and treatment, which improves survival rates significantly.
3. Cardiovascular disease :
– Facts: Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for men in the UK. Risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and an inactive lifestyle, all of which increase the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes.
– Signs to Watch: Symptoms can vary but may include chest pain, shortness of breath, sudden fatigue, or a rapid or irregular heartbeat. Importantly, conditions like high blood pressure and high cholesterol often have no symptoms, making regular checks essential.
– What to Do: Men over 40 should have their blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood glucose levels checked regularly. Reducing alcohol intake, staying active, and managing stress are also effective ways to lower cardiovascular risks.
4. Mental Health and Suicide Prevention :
– Facts: Three out of four suicides in the UK are men, and it is the leading cause of death for men under 50. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues are common, but social expectations and stigma often prevent men from seeking support.
– Signs to Watch: Signs of depression or anxiety can include feeling hopeless, withdrawing from social activities, changes in sleep or appetite, irritability, and a lack of motivation.
– What to Do: Building awareness and encouraging open conversations about mental health are crucial. Men should seek help if they feel consistently low or anxious. GP referrals, counselling
The Importance of Regular Health Checks for Men
Preventive healthcare is key to catching issues early and increasing life expectancy. Despite the stigma around medical visits, regular check-ups can make a huge difference. Men should aim to see their doctor at least once a year for a general health check-up, especially as they age or if they have a family history of specific health issues.
Essential Screenings and Tests for Men:
– Blood Pressure & Cholesterol Tests: Regular monitoring helps catch signs of heart disease early.
– Blood Glucose Test: Regular glucose testing is essential for detecting diabetes, especially for men over 40 or with a family history.
– Colonoscopy: Starting at age 50 (or earlier for those with a family history), a colonoscopy is vital for catching colorectal cancer.
– Skin Checks: Men have higher rates of melanoma, and regular skin checks can help catch skin cancer early.
Regular health checks provide an opportunity to detect underlying issues before they become serious. In fact, studies show that regular health screenings lower the risk of complications and lead to early intervention, which improves survival rates and quality of life.
Final Thoughts
Movember serves as a reminder that men’s health deserves attention. The movement encourages men to grow moustaches as a visual cue for starting conversations about health issues and promoting wellness. By participating, men not only support vital causes but also inspire other men to pay closer attention to their health and lifestyle choices.
This Men’s Health Month, let’s encourage men to take charge of their health by staying informed, getting regular check-ups, and addressing any health concerns early. While the moustache may be symbolic, the conversations and actions it sparks have the power to save lives. Whether it’s booking an overdue doctor’s appointment or opening up about mental health, taking proactive steps in health can have a lasting impact.
