Doctor Who? When Men Skimp on Physicals

Why Men Skip Their Physicals

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), men are more likely than women to:*

* Die from heart disease, cancer, and stroke.

* Have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.

* Be obese.

* Smoke, drink alcohol, and use illicit drugs.

* Skip their preventive care appointments.

While there are many reasons why men might skip their physicals, some of the most common include:*

* They're afraid of what the doctor might find.

* They don't think they need a physical.

* They're too busy with work or family.

* They don't have health insurance.

The Risks of Skipping Physicals

Skipping your physical can have serious consequences for your health. Some of the risks include:*

* Being diagnosed with a serious illness at a later stage, when it's more difficult to treat.

* Having to pay more for treatment.

* Developing complications from an untreated illness.

* Dying from a preventable disease.

How to Overcome the Barriers to Getting a Physical

If you're one of the many men who skips their physicals, there are a few things you can do to overcome the barriers that are keeping you from getting the care you need:*

* Talk to your doctor about your concerns.

* Find a doctor that you're comfortable with.

* Make time for your physical. It's just as important as your other commitments.

* Look into getting health insurance if you don't already have it.

Getting a physical is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Don't skip your next appointment.