It’s true – men generally are more reluctant than women to visit a doctor until they experience a health problem. According to recent studies, almost three times more men than women reported it had been at least 12 months since they had a doctor’s appointment. Out of every five men, only three had an annual physical. That means that for many men, if you feel good, you believe there is no reason to see the inside of a doctor’s office. However, you can feel fine while high blood pressure, bad cholesterol and blood sugar imbalances are affecting your health undetected. In short, important preventative care that can indicate and avert health problems is often ignored.
Why Do Men Delay their Healthcare?
There are several reasons why men try to steer clear of doctors.
- Admitting having health problems threatens their masculinity, especially ones associated with sexual health.
- Many men are reluctant to talk about certain physical symptoms such as: frequent urination; erectile dysfunction; swollen prostrate; a rash, bumps, sores or skin irritations anywhere on the body; or blood from any orifice, to name a few.
- Some men simply are uncomfortable in the presence of doctors. They may be overwhelmed with information, feel like they are being judged, or don’t want to hear and acknowledge what the doctor is telling them.
Surveys indicate that health just doesn’t seem to be a topic of conversation among men. Current events, sports, work, travel and family take precedence. As a humorous point, almost 20 percent of the men surveyed admitted they only schedule a medical appointment so their significant other or loved one will stop hounding them to have a check-up. Such misguided aversion to attending to one’s health can contribute to serious illness or long term health conditions, which obviously will entail a lot of medical appointments in the future.
Build a Relationship with Dr. Charkawi
So men, now is the time to start developing a relationship with Dr. Charkawi. An annual check-up is a good way to start feeling more comfortable sharing your health issues. Dr. Zack stresses that prevention and early detection of medical conditions is of upmost importance. He is a great listener, feels genuine concern for his patients and can help you with your medical needs. Here are some preventative health tips to start your connection with Dr. Charkawi positively.
- Exercise and eat healthy, two of the most important steps in living a healthy life.
- Schedule regular checkups at Men’s Health Atlanta. You don’t need to wait until a condition has become unbearable to visit Dr. Zack.
- Tell the truth. Not talking about a problem won’t make it go away – and some issues may indicate more serious underlying conditions.
- Do your homework. Too few men know the right age to be screened for various health conditions. Ask Dr. Charkawi to establish a timeline for initial and regular well-being screenings based on your age, family history, and existing medical symptoms or conditions.
- Check yourself for changes, bumps, lesions or lumps in your skin – everywhere! Early detection of abnormalities is the first step to getting treated and cured.
Schedule Your Appointment
Prevention is paramount for a man’s health and getting timely guidance from Dr. Charkawi can limit a small problem from turning into a big one. Being educated, proactive, and taking advantage of the numerous advancements in healthcare today can make all the difference in a man’s quality of life. Call 770-771-6591 to schedule your annual physical today.
Zack Charkawi, M.D. is also highly experienced in Men’s Health including the P-Shot, Weight Loss, Diabetes, Heart Disease, Urgent Care and Hair Loss. Men’s Health Atlanta can be found in Johns Creek close to Highway 141 (Peachtree Parkway). It is located right across from Emory Johns Creek Hospital on Hospital Parkway at the McGinnis Ferry Road intersections. Dr. Charkawi welcomes new patients from numerous counties such as North Fulton, South Forsyth, Gwinnett and the adjoining North Atlanta regions of Dawsonville, Duluth, Roswell, Cumming, Alpharetta, Milton, Suwanee and Johns Creek.
Special Note: This post is not intended as medical or professional advice. If you have any questions about how to map out a plan to stay healthy, make an appointment at Men’s Health Atlanta with Zack Charkawi, M.D.