Men’s Reluctance to Visit a Doctor Puts Them at Unnecessary Risk

Regular health screenings are one of the simplest and most effective ways to detect both current and emerging health risks. With early detection and the right lifestyle changes, many of Australia’s most common chronic diseases can be prevented or significantly reduced. Yet despite the evidence, Life First data shows that only 32% of clients have a regular GP with whom they routinely discuss their health and undertake screening.¹ This lack of ongoing medical oversight leaves many at unnecessary risk.

Many serious conditions have no symptoms

A major challenge in managing chronic disease is that many conditions develop silently. High blood pressure, elevated cholesterol and raised blood glucose are three of the most common risk factors for heart attack, stroke and diabetes, and all three can be completely symptomless. Without regular check-ups, these conditions can go unnoticed until they cause significant harm. Early screening allows for detection long before symptoms appear, giving people the opportunity to intervene early and improve long-term health.

Men are far less likely to seek preventative care

Research from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare highlights a clear trend: men are significantly less likely than women to undergo regular health assessments.² This avoidance comes at a cost. Compared with women, men are:

• Three times more likely to die from coronary heart disease

• Twice as likely to die from skin cancer

• Three times more likely to die by suicide

• Far less likely to see a doctor regularly³

The question is not whether men are at higher risk, but how many of these outcomes could improve if men engaged in consistent, preventative healthcare.

Why are men reluctant to visit their doctor?

Several factors contribute to men’s lower engagement in routine care. Some report being “too busy,” while others feel they should be tough, self-reliant or only seek help when something is clearly wrong. Another driver is the difference in gender-related healthcare patterns.

Women typically engage with the healthcare system earlier and more frequently, through cervical screening, menstrual and reproductive health checks, pregnancy care and postnatal support. This repeated contact fosters trust and ongoing monitoring, making preventative care more familiar and accessible.

Men, by contrast, often have fewer touchpoints with the healthcare system until later in life, which can mean fewer opportunities for early detection and timely intervention.

The importance of preventative health screening

As men age, establishing a pattern of regular health checks becomes increasingly important. Preventative care helps optimise health, preserve quality of life and identify risks long before they become serious issues. The earlier potential problems are detected, the more effective lifestyle changes and medical interventions can be.

How Life First can help

Life First programs are designed to support proactive, preventative healthcare. Our comprehensive health assessments provide a clear picture of your current health and identify any risks needing attention. With early detection, expert guidance and evidence-based recommendations, you can maximise longevity, maintain quality of life and take control of your health with confidence.

When it comes to your health, prevention is far better than cure. A comprehensive assessment is the smartest first step. Contact us today to find out more.