Men, “Car, gadget or body, which one are you putting more time and effort in?”
If you are not picking the last option, you are not alone.
Compared to women, men are more likely to:
- Smoke and drink
- Make unhealthy or risky choice
- Neglect regular check-ups and medical care
When it comes to understanding the men’s attitude towards their health, numerous factors come into play. A lack of awareness, weak health education, less open discussion, low health-seeking behaviour, unhealthy work and personal lifestyle are generally the underlying causes of men’s negligence on their own health. Many men also tend to be in denial about their conditions or diagnosis, and refuse to accept the limitations that come with age. Societal stereotypes and pressures are other factors that hinder men from expressing and emotions and needs, therefore preventing them from seeking help and getting necessary treatment.
These health-affecting behaviours among men are occurring in most parts of the world, including Malaysia. According to the Ministry of Health (MOH) Malaysia, men reported a low uptake of health screening compared to women, and the life expectancy of the average Malaysian men is almost 5 years less than his female counterparts. The report further pointed out that the average men currently stands at 72.7 years while the women is 77.4 years, showing 5 years longer. Meanwhile in the context of health conditions, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, mental health, prostate issue, and sexual dysfunction are some of the most common health problems facing men.
Despite so, men, don’t be hopeless. It is never too late to start taking steps to improve your health today!
How can I take charge of my health?
- Perform a regular health screening even if you feel healthy. This is crucial because some health conditions are asymptomatic at first. Besides that, you get a chance to learn more about your health when seeing a doctor.
- Schedule an appointment with doctor when there is something doesn’t seem right.
- Understand your family’s health history.
- Cease smoking.
- If you have a habit with alcohol, drink only in moderation.
- Give yourself permission to take a time out.
- Connect with your friends and family.
- Get some exercise.
- Eat a healthy and balanced diet, and keep yourself hydrated.
Addressing your health can be scary, but totally avoiding it can be deadly. Thus, start inculcating these new healthy habits from now and become proactive about your health!
Biobay Macomen is traditionally used for men’s health and vitality
References:
- 10 Health Tips for Men of Any Age. (10 Aug, 2021). Retrieved from healthgrades: Men’s Health: https://www.healthgrades.com/right-care/mens-health/10-health-tips-for-men-of-any-age
- Men: Take Charge of Your Health. (15 Oct, 2020). (Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion) Retrieved from U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: https://health.gov/myhealthfinder/topics/doctor-visits/regular-checkups/men-take-charge-your-health
- Murugesan, M. (2020). Let’s Talk about Men’s Health. New Straits Time. Retrieved from Medline Plus.
- Santeramo, E. (14 Jul, 2018). 10 Top Health Risks for Men. (M. Weng, Editor) Retrieved from healthline: https://www.healthline.com/health/top-10-health-risks-for-men