‘Men do not “moan” when they have Man-Flu. They emit involuntary groans of agony that are entirely in proportion to the unbearable pain they are in…’
While this joke shows how some men are willing to embrace their health issues, many men are far more reluctant to face up to more serious health problems.
Early diagnosis
Bowel Cancer
As with all diseases, early diagnosis is the key to early treatment, which in turn vastly increases the chances of survival and recovery. This is why screening opportunities are so important. For example, since March 2013, the NHS has run a Bowel Cancer Screening Programme across the UK. The programme (for men and women) aims to find any small growths called ‘polyps’, which may develop into bowel cancer if left untreated.
From middle age onwards, men are known to be vulnerable to developing bowel cancer. In addition to screening, expert opinion and advice informs us that prevention of developing bowel cancer through a healthy diet, giving up smoking and reducing alcohol intake are the most positive steps men can take.
Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is another disease that is all-too-common in men, especially in later life. Although there is currently no organised NHS screening programme for prostate cancer, an informed ‘Choice’ programme, ‘Prostate Cancer Risk Management’ has been introduced.
The aim of ‘Prostate Cancer Risk Management’ is to ensure that men who are concerned about the risk of prostate cancer receive clear and balanced information about the advantages and disadvantages of the PSA test and treatment for prostate cancer. This will help men decide whether they want to have the test. The PSA test is a blood test that measures the level of PSA (prostate specific antigen) in your blood. PSA is made by the prostate gland, and some of it will leak into your bloodstream depending on your age and the health of your prostate.
If you are worried about a specific problem, or otherwise worried about the risks of cancer, talk to your GP.
Should I have the PSA test?
• It may reassure you if the test result is normal.
• The test may give you an indication of cancer before symptoms develop.
• A PSA test may find cancer at an early stage when treatments could be of benefit.
• If treatment is successful, the worst possible outcomes of more advanced cancer, including death, are avoided.
• Even if the cancer is more advanced and treatment is less successful, it will usually extend life.
Skin Cancer
Another risk area, particularly for men who are outside workers such as builders, farmers, fisherman, etc., is exposure to the harmful rays in sunlight that can lead to the development of skin cancer. The ‘macho man’ is commonly known to reject the idea of using sun lotion because it’s considered ‘sissy’. In reality, protection by using sun block and a hat should simply be regarded as a common sense health precaution. See our feature on summer skincare (pp.00-00) for more information.
The Biggest Risks to Men’s Health
• Smoking (21.6 percent) is a major risk factor in lung cancer, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and heart disease.
• High blood pressure (18.3 percent) increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
• High cholesterol (15.6 percent) is another big risk factor for heart disease and stroke.
• Obesity (10.7 percent) increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and its complications.
• Not enough fruit and veg (8.7 percent). Not putting five-a-day on your plate at mealtimes increases the risk of heart disease, stroke and some cancers.
• Lack of exercise (6.2 percent). Not achieving the recommended 150 minutes of exercise a week increases the risks of heart disease, stroke and bowel cancer.
Source: NHS. Figures apply to the UK only
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