Why "Awareness" is Not Enough

November is Men’s Health Awareness Month, which means that right now, people around the world are skipping out on shaving in the name of men’s health.

How come?

You might better recognize this annual campaign as “Movember.” Combining “moustache” and “November,” it encourages people to grow a mustache to raise awareness of issues like prostate cancer, testicular cancer and suicide prevention.

But if we’re splitting hairs, men’s health requires more than just awareness of common issues. Knowing it’s time for a checkup and actually scheduling one are two different things.

Consider going the extra mile this month by taking stock of your own health and taking action to stay well. Here are some points to consider along the way.

Don’t Wait to Feel Worse

Like many men, when you notice a new health issue, you may be inclined to just tolerate it rather than address it – especially if it’s just mildly uncomfortable or doesn’t seem serious. There are actually many reasons why men might delay seeking care. Maybe it interferes with work or family commitments. Maybe you’re concerned about cost, or hesitant to ask for help. Maybe you’re just really convinced it’s nothing serious.

And you might be right. But it could also be something treatable that you’re enduring for no good reason. For example, if your nighttime trips to the bathroom have become more frequent, you might chalk it up to getting older. Urinary changes can have several causes, including an enlarged prostate. A healthcare provider can help you find out what’s going on.

You don’t have to wait for an issue to become serious before asking about it. If something is new, persistent or affecting your daily life, bring it up with your provider.

Know Where to Go for Care

Do you have a primary care provider? If not, you’re not alone. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, only 87% of men report seeing the same provider regularly, compared to 93% of women. It makes you wonder: what other healthcare blind spots are men dealing with?

When it comes to getting the care you need, the big picture involves much more than just your general practitioner. As health issues arise, you may want or need to expand your healthcare roster to include providers who specialize in: 

• Urology Services: Urologists can address bladder and prostate issues as well as erectile dysfunction and low testosterone. AtlantiCare offers advanced diagnostics and treatment options, including Aquablation therapy and robotic-assisted surgery.
• Heart & Vascular Care: Whether you're managing a heart condition or facing a complex cardiovascular diagnosis, a cardiologist or vascular surgeon can help. AtlantiCare offers advanced cardiac and vascular care, including minimally invasive procedures, complex heart surgery and specialized treatment for aortic aneurysms.
• Behavior Health: Mental health is an important part of overall health. AtlantiCare offers professional support and treatment for anxiety, depression, stress and other behavioral health concerns.
• Cancer Care: Whether it’s prostate cancer, colorectal cancer or another diagnosis, an oncologist will help you navigate a cancer diagnosis. AtlantiCare offers advanced care, specialized surgery and innovative treatments. Through our affiliation with Cleveland Clinic Cancer Institute, our specialists have access to connected cancer expertise and second opinions.

Most men know that taking care of their health is important. This month, take the next step, whether that means scheduling a checkup, asking about a symptom or following up on care you’ve put off.

AtlantiCare makes it easy to find care close to home. To get started today, visit AtlantiCare.org.