Many men tend to avoid going to the doctor unless they have a serious health problem or an emergency. They may think that they are too busy, too healthy, or too tough to need regular check-ups. However, this attitude can harm their health and well-being, especially as they age. In this blog post, I will explain why men should have a positive mindset about regularly visiting the doctor after they turn 30 and how it can benefit them in the long run.
The Benefits of Regular Doctor Visits
Regular doctor visits are not only for treating illnesses or injuries but also for preventing them. By seeing a doctor regularly, men can:
- Establish a good relationship with their physician: A doctor who sees a patient regularly gets to know their medical history, lifestyle, and health goals and can provide personalised and comprehensive care. A patient who trusts their doctor can also communicate better and feel more comfortable asking questions or sharing concerns².
- Detect and treat health problems early: Many health problems, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and some cancers, do not have obvious symptoms until they become advanced or life-threatening. A doctor can perform screening tests and physical exams to catch these problems early when they are more treatable and less costly. For example, testicular cancer is the second most common cancer among men under 40, and it can be cured if detected early¹³.
- Reduce the risk of future complications: Some health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure, can result from untreated or poorly managed chronic conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. A doctor can help men manage these conditions and prevent or delay their complications by prescribing medications, recommending lifestyle changes, or referring them to specialists².
- Improve the quality and length of life: Regular doctor visits can help men stay healthy, active, and productive and enjoy a better quality of life. They can also reduce the risk of premature death from preventable causes, such as cardiovascular disease, which is the leading cause of death among men worldwide².
How to Have a Positive Mindset About Regular Doctor Visits
Many men may have negative perceptions or experiences about going to the doctor, such as fear, embarrassment, inconvenience, or dissatisfaction. However, these barriers can be overcome by adopting a positive mindset and taking some practical steps, such as:
- Recognise the importance and benefits of regular doctor visits: Men should understand that going to the doctor is not a sign of weakness but responsibility and self-care. They should also focus on the positive outcomes and rewards of regular doctor visits, such as feeling better, living longer, and saving money.
- Find a doctor that suits their needs and preferences: Men should look for a doctor they like and trust who meets their expectations and requirements. They should consider the doctor’s qualifications, experience, availability, location, and communication style. They can also ask for recommendations from friends, family, or online reviews.
- Prepare for the visit and follow-up: Men should make an appointment in advance and schedule it at a convenient time and place. They should also prepare for the visit by bringing their medical records, medications, questions, and concerns. They should listen to the doctor’s advice and follow up with any tests, referrals, or treatments they recommend.
- Seek support from others: Men should not be afraid or ashamed to ask for help or advice from their loved ones, friends, or peers. They can also join online or offline support groups, where they can share their experiences, challenges, and successes with other men who have similar health issues or goals.
Conclusion
Regular doctor visits are essential for men’s health and well-being, especially after they turn 30. By seeing a doctor regularly, men can prevent, detect, and treat health problems and improve their quality and length of life. To have a positive mindset about regular doctor visits, men should recognise their importance and benefits, find a suitable doctor, prepare for the visit and follow-up, and seek support from others.
Book your Doctor Consultation Today
(1) 10 Reasons You Should Go to the Doctor (Even When You’re Healthy)- The Muse.
https://www.themuse.com/advice/10-reasons-you-should-go-to-the-doctor-even-when-youre-healthy.
(2) The Benefits of Seeing a Doctor Regularly – Bethesda Health Group.
https://bethesdahealth.org/blog/2021/10/06/benefits-seeing-doctor-regularly/.
(3) Which Doctors Do You Need to See in Your 30s? – Solv.
https://www.solvhealth.com/blog/every-doctor-to-see-in-30s.