Men’s Health Week: Prevention is better than cure
Men’s Health Week in the UK is a crucial time to spotlight the importance of health and wellbeing among men, particularly within the workplace. Despite numerous studies indicating that men are less likely to seek medical help and utilise healthcare services compared to women, it’s essential to break this cycle and encourage proactive health management. Addressing men’s health issues openly can significantly impact their quality of life, work performance, and overall wellbeing.
Why Men’s Health matters
Data on primary care in the UK reveals that men aged 21 to 58 consult a general practitioner (GP) half as often as women. This disparity can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment of health conditions that are preventable with early detection and lifestyle changes.
Key Health Concerns
Men face several critical health issues, including:
- Heart disease: The leading cause of death among men.
- Mental health and wellbeing: Men are less likely to seek help for mental health issues, with only 36% of mental health referrals being men.
- Certain cancers: Prostate, testicular, and lung cancers are significant concerns.
- Type 2 diabetes: Often linked to lifestyle factors.
Spire Occupational Health services
At Spire Occupational Health, we provide comprehensive men’s health services, including health assessments, stress management, Employee Assistance Programmes (EAP), and mental health services. Our goal is to support employees in maintaining their health and wellbeing, both physically and mentally.
‘Know Your Numbers‘
Regular health assessments are vital for early detection of conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar. If left unmanaged, these can lead to severe complications like heart attacks, strokes, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and organ damage. By monitoring these indicators, you can take charge and introduce appropriate interventions early. A trained healthcare professional can offer personalised advice on diet, exercise, and other lifestyle changes to improve overall health.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in men. It cannot be cured but you can reduce your risk of getting heart disease by making some simple lifestyle changes, including:
- Eating a healthy, balanced diet
- Being physically active
- Giving up smoking
- Controlling blood cholesterol and sugar levels
Keeping your heart healthy will also have other health benefits, such as helping reduce your risk of stroke and dementia. Treatment is easier and more likely to be successful if heart disease is detected early.
Mental wellbeing
Mental health is just as important as physical health. Unfortunately, stigma often prevents men from seeking help or speaking about the challenges they’re facing. Remember, asking for help is not a sign of weakness but a step towards better health. Talk to someone you trust whether it be a manager, friends, family, or a GP. Asking for help can be the hardest, but smartest step you can take.
By referral to us, our occupational health team can assist in getting you back to work after experiencing one of the following mental health concerns:
- Depression
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Addiction
- Insomnia
- Stress management
We also work with employers to implement reasonable adjustments that support mental health in the workplace.
Male cancers: Awareness and prevention
Lung, prostate, and testicular cancers are significant health issues for men. Early detection through regular self-checks and awareness of symptoms is crucial.
- Lung cancer
Often caused by smoking, symptoms include a persistent cough, coughing up blood, chest pain, and constant breathlessness. - Prostate cancer
According to Prostate Cancer UK, 1 in 8 men will get prostate cancer. Prostate cancer does not usually cause any symptoms until the cancer has grown large enough to put pressure on the tube (urethra) that carries urine from the bladder out of the penis. However, symptoms may include urinary difficulties, blood in urine, and pelvic discomfort. Regular check-ups are essential for early detection. - Testicular cancer
Testicular cancer accounts for 1%–2% of all cancers in men, with approximately 2,000 new cases per year in the UK. It occurs predominantly in men aged 30-34 and is the biggest cause of cancer-related death in 15 to 35-year-old males. With early detection and new, improved treatments, the chances of a recovery are extremely good. Symptoms include lumps, swelling, or pain in the testicles. Regular self-checks can help in early detection.
Useful Resources
For more information on various health topics, you can visit:
- Cardiovascular Disease: British Heart Foundation
- Mental Health and Wellbeing: Men’s Health Forum, Samaritans, Mind
Conclusion
At Spire Occupational Health, we are committed to the health and wellbeing of employees. By encouraging open discussions and regular health check-ups, we can break the stigma surrounding men’s health. If you have any concerns about your health, please speak to your Manager or HR Manager to learn how we can support you with appropriate health and wellbeing services.
Together, let’s promote a healthier, more supportive work environment for all.