Men encouraged to regularly go for health checks

Males in Cape Town have been encouraged to visit their local healthcare facility, not just this ‘Movember’, but throughout the year.

According to the City of Cape Town, there has been a 15% decline in men attending clinics for health visits across all age categories. Figures from the health directorate shows that during the 2023/2024 financial year 1 101 765 men attended City clinics, compared to 1 294 229 the previous year. Men aged 40 and above are typically encouraged to have regular screening for hypertension and diabetes, but trends show that younger men (18 – 40) are being diagnosed, due, in part, to lifestyle factors.

PICTURE: CoCT

When it comes to testicular cancer, young men are encouraged to not ignore lumps just because they are pain-free, and to have them checked out at their nearest healthcare facility.

‘’One of the key objectives of the day is to improve the health of men and boys. It starts with identifying risk factors and taking measures to reduce the potential impact. Heart disease, TB and diabetes are among the leading causes of death in men. The good news is that there are precautions men can take to stay healthy,’ said Patricia van der Ross, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health.

Van Der Ross noted most concerning that depression and anxiety is on the increase, including suicide amongst adolescents and men.

‘’We need to shift perceptions around seeking professional help for mental health matters, but also taking responsibility for our own health through positive lifestyle changes, like eating healthy foods, exercising and avoiding substances like alcohol and drugs. If you have any questions or concerns, visit your nearest clinic, and make use of the online booking system to reduce the waiting times for walk-in consultations.’’

 

Other health issues that men should be aware of and have checked if they have any concerns:

Prostate disease, including cancer and benign disease. Men aged 40 and above can be screened if asymptomatic, and men of any age can be checked out if symptomatic. Prostate symptoms include difficulty in starting or stopping your urinary stream, a weak urinary stream throughout, and increased frequency in passing urine, especially at night

Testicular disease

Tuberculosis: if you have been coughing for more than two weeks, are losing weight, sweating a lot at night, or have been in close contact with someone who has TB, get it checked at your nearest facility. TB remains a very treatable disease

HIV: all men should know their HIV status. HIV cannot be cured, but can be controlled with medication

Non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus and asthma: all conditions that can be controlled on medication, and where sensible lifestyle choices have beneficial impacts

Cardiovascular disease accounts for significant morbidity in South Africa. If you are having chest pain, have it checked out

 

 

Done By: Mitchum George