Why Many Men Don't Get Annual Physicals and 5 Reasons They Should

About one-third of men across the country think that annual physicals are unnecessary, according to a 2022 poll. Many feel that they’re simply healthier than average. What many fail to realize, though, is that annual medical exams are more about staying healthy rather than treating illness. Assessing your own health objectively isn’t easy to do.

The team at Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center in Arverne, Far Rockaway, Jamaica, and Red Hook, Brooklyn, New York specializes in family health services. A regular relationship with a primary care provider can be one of the best health care practices you can gift yourself. 

Why do men shy away from physicals?

When it comes to reasons why men pass on annual physicals, it usually comes down to one of three general categories of reasoning. 

“I don’t have time” 

The demands of life stack up and time crunches occur often. Men are more likely to bump self care down their priority list in favor of other responsibilities or tasks. 

“I feel fine”

When there are no symptoms, there are no problems. It’s a trap that anyone can fall into but one that seems to affect men more. Yet, as they get older, some of the biggest health risks are asymptomatic as they develop through the early stages, including: 

• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol

These conditions can be well advanced to dangerous levels before you have symptoms you can recognize. 

“I don’t want to talk about that”

Some medical topics are embarrassing to talk about. Avoidance may seem easier than having awkward conversations or risking anxiety about a negative diagnosis. Both of these situations can create feelings of vulnerability.

Five reasons men should get annual physicals

1. Early detection 

Physicals can detect hidden conditions before symptoms arise. Generally, the sooner you uncover a health condition, the easier it is to treat. You’re more likely to enjoy a successful outcome, treatments are generally less invasive, and health costs are more manageable. 

2. Preventive screenings

General health screenings are often tied to a calendar, the age when certain conditions become a greater statistical risk. With annual physicals, you don’t need to worry about which screening you should have and when. We’ll take care of that for you. Common screenings include: 

• Colon cancer
• Diabetes
• Prostate
• Skin cancer 

We’ll also keep you aware of recommended vaccinations as they become due.

3. Heart monitoring

Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death for men. It’s never too early to watch for signs, like blood pressure, cholesterol, body mass index (BMI), and lifestyle hazards like alcohol consumption and smoking. 

4. Mental health

Stress plays a huge role in your overall health, leading to physical changes as well as affecting your emotional and mental well being. Poor sleep can cause or deepen anxiety and depression. 

5. Your health baseline

Regular physical exam appointments automatically build a record of your health over time. You can build familiarity with your providers, making it easier to discuss personal health matters. Consistent, regular medical care improves your chances for healthy aging. 

Contact Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center at our nearest office to get caught up on your annual physicals. Call (718) 945-7150 or click the Schedule Now link on this page to book your next visit now.