Growing up, I witnessed how a handful of men hardly sought care when sick. The ignorance of symptoms of sickness and denial of it was incredible to observe. I was curious to know why these men would only seek medical care when incredibly sick and not at the immediate onset of it.
This curiosity led me to conduct a research project in medical school as my dissertation; the knowledge, attitude, and health seeking behavior of male business professionals. While the sample I studied was educated men with good jobs, the results reflected what was pervasive in the culture. Men not quickly seeking care at the first signs of illness.
It is viewed as “weak” to do so, and a man ought to toughen up and not complain. Some were too busy to take a break from work to seek medical care. This way of “being” makes it harder for men to benefit from the early detection of diseases. For example, with the high suicide rate in Colorado, even amongst men, studies have shown that men find it harder to ask for help when struggling.
While I know this observation in the male population isn’t true of every man out there; it is something worth exploring. The culture is also gradually shifting in this arena. Men who have healthy and fit role models around them are more likely to be healthy and fit.
This behavioral dynamic, while subtle is effective. We tend to be like those we frequently hang out with. It would be a great to see men stand up not only for their health but also the health of their children and friends. This could cause a wild chain reaction. #influence
As a man, here a few ways you can change this trend at work or in the community to encourage health seeking behavior among men:
- Have work-life balance that promotes healthy behavior and reduces stress.
- Develop favorable work policies that allow or mandate regular health check- ups, allowing men in busy professions to take care of themselves.
- Educate yourself about your body and your health. Be an active participant in your health and not assume your doctor has to do everything.
- Join male support groups – it can be peer-to-peer, professional or religious work support groups. These groups should be the ones to help support you in reaching your goal(s). It is best if they meet regularly and at fixed times. Support groups are essential.
- Seek programs targeted at behavioral intervention that can help you overcome a habit or addiction that’s going on. It can be a simple habit like drinking 8 cups of water a day.
- Community leaders should encourage laws and policies that favor men’s health. Supporting the design and delivery of health services that meet men’s particular needs.
Men who are authority figures can also influence others, by promoting and modeling good behavioral health, helping to drive change within the community without even saying a word.
Men who are proactive with their health, not only impact positively their own health into the future, but can also change positively the course of the future of communities by being a role model of something great – good health!
What would it cost you to change your mind? What would it cost you if you DO NOT CHANGE your mind? Think about it. Drop us a line with your thoughts.
Dr. Tolu Oyewumi is a Physician and Epidemiologist. She is also a certified Coach, Speaker, Teacher, Trainer and a passionate writer.