Silent crisis: Why South African men are dying seven years sooner than women
One silent crisis continues to claim lives: men's health. Across South Africa, men are suffering – and dying – in silence.
Image: Nappy/Pexels
In a world where health discussions dominate conversations, one silent crisis stands out: men's health across South Africa.
Glaring statistics reveal a grim reality, as South African men are living an average of seven years less than women, with a life expectancy of just around 62 years compared to 69 years for their female counterparts.
This disparity is largely attributed to avoidable health risks, late diagnoses, and an alarming reluctance to seek preventative care.
This Men's Health Month, Bestmed Medical Scheme is urging men of all ages to take action towards their well-being.
The persistent issues of fear, stigma, and a deeply ingrained culture of avoidance surrounding medical check-ups and health screenings continue to claim lives.
'Too many men only visit a doctor when it's already too late,' warns Dr Lee Moses, Medical Advisor: Advisory Risk and Quality Management at Bestmed Medical Scheme.
'We need to normalise proactive care because prevention is far more powerful than cure.'
The stark statistics
The statistics paint a sobering picture of men's health in the country. Aside from the considerable life expectancy gap, there is a concerning trend regarding late-stage diagnoses of prostate and testicular cancer.
Prostate cancer, the most common cancer among men, is highly manageable if caught in its early stages. However, stigma related to screenings, particularly fears surrounding rectal exams, discourages many from seeking this crucial health service.
'Many men dread the rectal exam,' Dr Moses acknowledges, 'but times have changed. A simple PSA blood test is now an initial screening option for men over 40.'
More invasive tests are only recommended if initial assessments raise concerns. To combat this silent crisis, men are encouraged to perform regular testicular self-exams and attend annual prostate screenings to detect potential problems early, before they escalate into life-threatening conditions. Hidden threats to health
Prostate cancer is not the only concern on the horizon. Men face higher risks of chronic illnesses, including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and mental health disorders.
These conditions are often diagnosed too late due to delayed healthcare consultations. Lifestyle choices, such as poor diet, insufficient exercise, excessive alcohol consumption, and tobacco use exacerbate these risks, leading to dire health outcomes.
Mental health remains a particularly challenging aspect of men's overall health. Many men are less likely than women to seek help for issues such as depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts. As a result, addiction and suicide rates continue to rise.
Furthermore, men fall behind in HIV and TB testing, with a significant number neglecting treatment and precautionary measures, risking their health and the well-being of those around them.
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A call to change
'It's time to flip the script,' Dr Moses asserts. 'Going for regular check-ups isn't a weakness – it's being responsible. It's a strength and it's how we stay alive for the people who count on us.'
Bestmed Medical Scheme encourages men to take small but consistent steps towards better health: Schedule annual health screenings
Adopt a balanced diet and exercise regularly
Manage stress and mental well-being
Stay informed and proactive about health
'When detected early, most health problems are manageable or even reversible. Men, your health matters. Speak up. Show up. Live longer.' Dr Moses concludes, urging men to take charge of their health for themselves and their loved ones.
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