According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, men are less likely than women to see a doctor on a regular basis. But neglecting one’s health and missing important screenings can result in bigger health problems.
So how can women help make sure their male counterparts receive wellness checkups? Here are a few tips.
Just the facts
If there’s a man in your life who is reluctant to visit the doctor, sometimes you’ll need to help him understand the importance of prevention. Before you take an unwilling husband, brother, father or son to the doctor, offer these facts:
Strategies for getting him to the doctor
Once your male loved one understands these health realities, it’s time to take action. Men, like women, should receive an annual physical exam by their primary care physician. If needed, the doctor will arrange for additional tests such as blood work and colon cancer screening. If he receives a clean bill of health, set an appointment for the following year.
Sometimes supplying information isn’t enough. In these instances, consider making your health care appointment on the same day as your male loved one’s. Build a lunch date into your joint day of health.
Lifesaving screenings make financial sense
If a reluctant male has obvious health concerns, it is even more important to encourage him to get checked. Don’t wait for something small to become a health crisis. Hospital bills, time off work and major lifestyle changes can be costly.
Some men need a reminder that seeing the doctor isn’t a waste of resources. In fact, it is one of the most important things he can do for his family. Let him know that these screenings can go a long way toward keeping him in tip-top shape physically and financially:
UCLA Health has more than 170 medical practices throughout Southern California. Learn more about primary care practices or find a physician by calling 1-800-UCLA-MD1.
Tags: blood pressure screening, cholesterol screening, colonoscopy, Healthy Living, men's health, preventative care, prostate exam, UCLA Men's Health Clinic, urologists at ucla, urology, Wellness