Too manly to go to the doctor? Here’s what to look out for in each decade

It may come as no big surprise that most men don’t like going to the doctor. However, a new study conducted by scientists from the University of Chicago has shown that an overly “masculine” approach to health can be life-threatening. Data shows that men’s need to appear independent and strong keeps them from seeking medical help, and even when they do get a diagnosis, they don’t always pursue treatment.

Unfortunately, this reticence affects their durability. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reports that 2022 was the third year in a row in which more male than female deaths were recorded. And serious conditions like cardiovascular disease and some cancers could have been prevented with earlier intervention.

In the UK the four biggest killers of men are heart failure, lung failure and prostate cancer and suicide. And although genetics play a role, there are still many changes you can make that will improve your well-being and increase your chances of living longer. Here’s how to protect yourself at any age…

In the 1930s and 1940s

Watch out for… feeling depressed or overloaded

This is often a time when men are trying to secure a career, buy property or pay off a mortgage, build a family and maintain relationships. Not only can stress negatively impact your sleep, sex life, immune system, gut health, heart rate and blood pressure, it can also increase your risk of depression. Although other factors come into play – alcohol and psychoactive substance abuseloneliness, relationship breakdown – in Great Britain, suicide is the biggest killer men under 50.

Last year the British Association for Counseling and Psychotherapy (BACP) launched its Raise campaign to help with identification depression in men. The acronym, which is intended to identify five signs of depression, stands for risk-taking, anger, isolation, substance abuse and exhaustion.

Anthony Davis, a BACP-accredited psychotherapist and campaigner, says: “There is often pressure on men in these age groups to get things in order, both professionally and personally. However, when they feel that they are not fulfilling their potential, depression may occur. And if fathers and grandfathers were not open to their emotions, perhaps believing that speaking up was unmanly, this example is often passed on to the next generation. If difficult feelings are not expressed, they may surface in the form of anger, risky living, or acute anxiety.”

Health plan

According to BACP, 56 percent of therapists agree that men are less likely to receive support than women. Talking helps. Talk to people close to you, a charity such as Samaritans, or a professional therapist. Anthony Davis says: “This is important express these difficult emotions and bring them to the surface in a trusted environment to make them easier to manage.”

Overeatingdrinking alcohol and a sedentary lifestyle can also be a byproduct of stress. Develop the right habits that will support your needs. Thibo David, a performance coach, adds: “Research shows that exercise reduces symptoms of anxiety by 22-48 percent, strengthening your resilience to stress.”

In the 1950s and 1960s

Watch out for… prostate cancer, high blood pressure and high cholesterol

No one knows your body like you do, so try to spot the warning signs before it’s too late! If something seems unusual, a check-up with your GP will usually reassure you and further concerns can be explored. A simple blood test can detect it high cholesterol, high blood pressureanemia, poor liver function and diabetes.