Men's Health Month: Recognise the warning signs to save your life

As we embrace Men's Health Month this June, the spotlight is on the importance of proactive health checks for men.

Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health urges men to pay attention to their bodies, highlighting the critical early warning signs that too many often ignore.

“Too many men wait until they’re in crisis to see a doctor,” Hewlett.

“By that point, the condition may advance or require more aggressive treatment. If we get men to act early, even if they think it’s ‘nothing’, we could save countless lives.”

10 warning signs that should never be overlooked

• Chest Pain, Pressure or Tightness: This could indicate a heart attack or other serious heart conditions. Any unexplained chest discomfort should prompt immediate medical attention.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: Losing 4-5kg without making dietary and lifestyle changes could signal cancers or other serious conditions; see your doctor if this occurs.
• Constant Fatigue: Persistent exhaustion not relieved by rest may signify low testosterone, anaemia, or even heart disease.
• Trouble Urinating: Difficulties such as a weak stream or frequent urination at night could signal prostate issues, common in men over 50.
• Blood in Urine, Stool or Cough: Any presence of blood can be a serious warning and should always be investigated.
• Shortness of Breath: Frequent breathlessness during daily activities might indicate lung or heart issues that require attention.
• Lumps or Swelling: Finding an unexplained lump anywhere in your body warrants immediate medical evaluation for possible cancers.
• Erectile Dysfunction (ED): Beyond impacting intimate relationships, ED can indicate underlying cardiovascular issues.
• Mental Health Changes: Mood swings, irritability, or increased sadness may be signs of depression or anxiety that need prompt attention.
• Ongoing Digestive Issues or Heartburn: Chronic digestive concerns can indicate severe underlying conditions like cancer; if you’re relying on antacids often, don’t wait to seek help.

Research reveals that men are significantly less likely to attend annual health screenings compared to women, often sidelined by fear of diagnosis, discomfort discussing symptoms, or a poor understanding of the importance of timely medical intervention.

Compounding these issues are access barriers in rural areas and the pervasive stigma around mental health, each contributing to late diagnoses and vital treatments that could make all the difference.

To foster better health, Affinity Health encourages men to adhere to a health screening checklist:

• Blood Pressure Check – Annually from age 20.
• Blood Sugar Test (Glucose) – Every 1–3 years from age 35.
• Cholesterol Test – Every 4–6 years from age 20.
• Prostate Health Check – Starting at age 40–45 for high-risk men.
• Testicular Self-Exam – Monthly from age 15–40.
• Colon Cancer Screening – From age 45 or earlier if there is a family history.
• HIV & STI Testing – Annually if sexually active.
• BMI and Waist Circumference – Yearly to assess obesity risk.
• Mental Health Check-ins – As needed; don’t ignore mood or energy shifts.
• Skin and Mole Check – Annually for sun-exposed individuals or those with familial skin cancer history.

IOL