Men’s Health: Are You Getting the Care You Need?

Man resting on bench after exercise and  drinking water .

By: Dr. Frank Acerra

Here’s a simple question: when was the last time you visited a health care provider, for any reason? For men, there’s a good chance it has been quite a while. In the U.S., nearly half of all men have not seen their provider for a routine checkup or wellness visit within the last year. But that doesn’t mean American men are exceptionally healthy—nearly three quarters avoided a doctor’s visit despite feeling sick, and even more chose not to consult their provider about an injury.* No matter what your personal health picture looks like, avoiding a doctor’s visit can have a negative impact on your overall well-being.

No matter how healthy you feel or how well you take care of yourself, avoiding medical care puts your health at risk.

doctor consulting with patient

Men’s Health: Are You Getting the Care You Need?

When you visit your health care provider, or consider making an appointment, do you find any of these concerns running through your mind?

  • Receiving a bad diagnosis and how it might disrupt your life.
  • Discussing sensitive health topics, like erectile dysfunction or urinary issues.
  • That a doctor’s visit isn’t necessary because you should be able to take care of yourself.

If you’ve experienced any of these feelings, you’re not alone—these are the common concerns that keep many men from seeking care. While it’s normal to be somewhat anxious about your health and wellness, avoiding care entirely can lead to more serious health issues down the line, which is why visiting your provider on a regular basis is the best way to ensure you remain healthy.

The Risks of Avoiding Medical Care

No matter how healthy you feel or how well you take care of yourself, avoiding medical care puts your health at risk. Wellness visits and routine screenings can improve the chances of identifying health issues in the early stages when they’re most treatable and can greatly reduce your risk of further complications. Your provider will be able to screen you for health conditions that are common in men, such as:

  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  • Colorectal cancer
  • Diabetes
  • Kidney disease
  • Lung cancer
  • Prostate cancer

So, if you’re a man who hasn’t visited a provider in some time, it might be helpful to think of your health and body the same way you would approach maintaining an automobile. If you drive your car for too long without changing the oil or rotating the tires, it will begin underperforming and eventually stop running. The same thing can be said for your body—if you go too long without a checkup or screening, it may also cause problems that could lead to a potentially serious health issue.

How Can ACPNY Help?

At AdvantageCare Physicians, our goal is to deliver comprehensive and accessible care that considers your entire health picture. Our “whole you” care approach focuses on all of the physical, mental, and lifestyle factors that impact your overall well-being to make sure you get the right care at the right time. When you visit ACPNY for care, your primary care provider will work with you to address your unique concerns as a patient and better manage your health.

Learn more about our commitment to serving our diverse patient population here, or schedule your next appointment today.

*Source: https://www.webmd.com/men/news/20210706/men-less-likely-to-see-doctor-study

 

Tuesday, November 5: All offices will close at 5 p.m. for election day. Clove Road Urgent Care Center and Valley Stream will remain open.