Gentlemen, Take Charge of Your Health!

November is Men's Health Awareness Month-made popular by the hashtag #Movemeber. Since the focus is on men and their health this month, we can't ignore the fact that, over the years, men have proven to be more reluctant to seek health care.?

If recent data is to go by, the latest figures by SEHA, in the UAE, show that 70% of Emirati men under 30 years old suffer from diabetes and obesity. Another study shows that two-thirds of men avoid going to the doctor.?When you dig deeper into this issue, it's evident that not enough men are undergoing regular screening and physical body work-ups for prevalent health issues. The deep-rooted stigma around men's health has been a major contributing factor. Men are less likely to seek support as the traditional gender expectations placed upon them make them fear being seen as weak.?

The Angels Before Us; Don't Let Masculinity Be a Barrier to Good Health!??

This November, I'd like to open up a conversation about men's health. As we celebrate the men in our life this month, it's also an excellent time to raise awareness and encourage all men out there to put their health first, always.?The topic of Men's Health particularly touches me, and I can relate to it very closely. Five years ago, I lost my dad (may his soul rest in peace). He was the apple of my eye. Words can't explain how much I adored him. Since he loved us so much, he was always fully committed to caring for our family.?

With a million responsibilities weighing on him, his health always came last. It was devastating to find out he was sick, as it was already too late. I have spent every day since wishing he had taken better care of his health.?

Following my loss, I have realized a wide range of factors contribute to the stigma around men and seeking treatment. The conflict between masculinity and seeking help has been a form of cancer slowly killing our society.? Society has made it so that men should be self-reliant and tough; hence they shouldn't rely on anyone for help. Unfortunately, this societal construct has been ripping us off our loved ones. As a mom of two boys, I'm teaching them the importance of their health daily. One day they will grow up to be men, and when that time comes, I want them to know that asking for help is okay. They can live healthier, happier, and longer lives!?

A Silver Lining- Ways Men Can Take Charge of Their Health!?

1.????Listen to Your Body and Notice Changes?

While this seems simple, every man needs to listen to their body. Often, men will let brush off the fact that they could be something wrong with their bodies. Talk to your doctor as soon as something seems off. Remember, by taking care of your health, you are not only taking care of yourself but also your family.?

2.????Rebuild Your Foundational Habits?

Foundational habits, no matter how small, contribute to your long-term health. Develop a healthy lifestyle by exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, managing stress, avoiding tobacco, and limiting alcohol intake. That will help prevent many health problems and generally increase your lifespan.?

3.????Schedule Regular Visits with Your Primary Care Doctor?

Get routine checkups with your primary care doctor to track your body's vital signs. That way, your doctor can identify early enough if there's something wrong with your body. On top of that, make sure you schedule a colonoscopy and prostrate exam. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of death among men worldwide.?

The Time to Act is Now!?

Change starts now! Don't put off making positive changes in your life. Choose one aspect of your lifestyle where you can improve and make better decisions. Your health impacts every part of your life. So, do everything you can to look after yourself. Your mind and body will be grateful.

Written by Kawther Haciane.