SA men are dying too young men are dying too young – and it's time to talk about it
Prostate cancer – the most common cancer among men – is highly manageable when caught in its early stages. Yet stigma and fear, especially around how screenings are conducted, discourage men from seeking help, says the writer.
One silent crisis continues to claim lives: men's health. Across South Africa, men are suffering – and dying – in silence. The reasons? Fear, stigma and a deeply ingrained culture of avoidance when it comes to medical check-ups and health screenings.
This Men's Health Month, we are calling on men of all ages to take charge of their well-being by prioritising regular health screenings, embracing healthier habits, and speaking openly about both physical and mental health challenges.
Too many men only visit a doctor when it's already too late. We need to normalise proactive care because prevention is far more powerful than a cure.
The stats speak for themselves
South African men are living, on average, seven years less than women, with an average life expectancy of just around 62 years for men, compared to 69 years for women. This stark difference is largely due to avoidable health risks, late diagnoses and a lack of health-seeking behaviour such as preventative care.
A concerning trend is the high rate of late-stage prostate and testicular cancer diagnoses among South African men. Prostate cancer – the most common cancer among men – is highly manageable when caught in its early stages. Yet stigma and fear, especially around how screenings are conducted, discourage men from seeking help.
Many men dread the rectal exam. But times have changed. A simple PSA blood test is now an initial screening option for men over 40 years old. More invasive tests are only needed if red flags are raised.
Men are encouraged to perform frequent testicular self-exams and to undergo annual prostate screenings to catch problems early, before they become life-threatening.
The hidden threats
Beyond cancer, men face higher risks of chronic illnesses such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and mental health disorders – often diagnosed too late due to delayed healthcare consultations. Lifestyle-related risks, including poor diet, lack of exercise, excessive alcohol use and tobacco consumption, further worsen outcomes.
What about mental health? Still taboo. Men are far less likely than women to seek help for depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts, leading to rising substance addiction and suicide rates. Men also lag in HIV and TB testing, treatment and adherence, with only a few going for testing and treatment, and taking precautionary measures.
It's time to flip the script. 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.'
Men are encouraged to take small but consistent steps:
Schedule annual health screenings
Adopt a balanced diet and exercise regularly
Manage stress and mental well-being
Stay informed and proactive about their health
When detected early, most health problems are manageable or even reversible. Men, your health matters. Speak up. Show up. Live longer.
Dr Lee Moses, Medical Advisor: Advisory Risk and Quality Management at Bestmed Medical Scheme
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