Men, on average, live several years shorter than women, and many of the leading causes of early death in men are preventable or treatable when caught early. Yet surveys consistently find that men are less likely to see a doctor, less likely to get regular checkups, and more likely to downplay symptoms. Understanding why can help men, and the people who care about them, find easier ways to get care.
The scale of the problem
In one U.S. survey, about 65% of men said they avoid going to the doctor as long as possible, and many admitted they weren’t fully honest with their doctors when they did go. The World Health Organization notes that men die, on average, about five years younger than women worldwide, driven in part by preventable conditions such as heart disease, certain cancers, injuries and the effects of smoking and alcohol.
Why men put off care
- Time and convenience. Many men cite a lack of flexible appointment times or difficulty taking time off work.
- Cost and insurance. Some don’t have health insurance or worry about bills.
- Not wanting to know. Fear of bad news leads some men to avoid checkups altogether.
- Embarrassment. Topics such as sexual health, urinary problems, weight and mental health can feel awkward to raise.
- Masculine norms. A 2019 editorial in The Lancet argued that strong beliefs about masculinity, such as being tough and self-reliant, create barriers that keep men from seeking help and expose them to greater risks.
How telehealth can lower the barriers
Virtual care can address several of these obstacles at once. Video visits, online consultations and secure messaging let men:
- Get care without taking time off work or traveling to a clinic
- Discuss sensitive issues from the privacy of home
- Receive prescriptions and, in some cases, have medication delivered
- Follow up more easily on ongoing conditions
Some digital services specialize in men’s health concerns such as erectile dysfunction, hair loss, weight management and mental health. Researchers have noted that this privacy can make men more willing to raise topics they’d otherwise avoid.
For many men, a convenient first conversation is the push needed to get care they’ve been putting off.
Use telehealth wisely
Telehealth works best as part of ongoing care, not a replacement for it. Some things still need an in-person visit, such as physical exams, certain screenings and urgent symptoms. Choose services with licensed clinicians, make sure your records are shared with your regular doctor, and be cautious of companies focused mainly on selling products.
Checkups every man should know about
- Blood pressure, checked at least every year or two
- Cholesterol and blood sugar, on a schedule your doctor recommends
- Colorectal cancer screening, generally starting at age 45
- A conversation about prostate cancer screening, usually from age 50, or earlier for higher-risk men
- Mental health check-ins. Depression in men often shows up as irritability, anger or heavy drinking
- Skin checks for new or changing moles
When not to wait
Seek care promptly for chest pain, shortness of breath, blood in urine or stool, unexplained weight loss, a lump anywhere, or persistent changes in bathroom habits. If you’re having thoughts of self-harm, in the U.S. call or text 988.
The bottom line
Men avoid doctors for many reasons, from busy schedules to embarrassment. Telehealth can make getting care easier and more private, but regular checkups remain one of the best ways for men to live longer, healthier lives.
This article is for general information and isn’t medical advice. Talk with your healthcare provider about your individual needs.
