The origin of the delay
Men traditionally or societal expectation are often discouraged men from showing vulnerability or weakness and be self-reliant. It starts by how boys are raised, basically. Boys are frequently encouraged and expected to be strong and tough both emotionally, physically and mentally. Since they are taught to endure hardship, weakness and vulnerability is not one of the chapters in their books of life. In traditional perspective, masculinity emphasizes independence and self-reliance. Boys should solve their own problem on their own without relying on anyone for help. For instance, boys are allowed to roam around and do all the crazy things their fantasies drive them to with no one questioning them. This gives them courage to face life and overcome their fears. For example, a boy may overcome his fear of heights by climbing trees.
They can suppress their emotional expression, particularly vulnerability, sadness, or fear. This can lead to emotional stoicism and difficulty in expressing feelings openly. Traditionally, gender often assign specific responsibilities and behaviours which give gender roles. For men, this might include roles like being breadwinners, protectors, and leaders within their families and communities. While for the women they are given domesticated roles such as cooking and cleaning. Men are often taught to be the primary providers for their families. Due to these roles men are given by their gender, they are pressured to prioritize education, career and being financially stable.
Men are often taught to be the primary providers for their families. Due to these roles men are given by their gender, they are pressured to prioritize education, career and being financially stable.
Delay in Medication
Due to this and more reasons, men may find it difficult to find their way to the doctors or medical specialists for their health to be checked. With this manner, men loss their live due to their illness getting worse caused by delays for medical attention. Ego can highly contribute to delay, where men desire to maintain a strong and invulnerable image. Seeking medical care can be seen as admitting weakness and vulnerability, which goes against the perceived need to appear strong and capable. Men driven by ego may prefer to handle their health issues, believing they can tough it out and solve it independently without external help. This can prevent men from recognizing the seriousness of their condition and seeking timely medical advice.
Robert Boinnet
An example of a lost life is a man named Robert Boinnet, who tragically died in 2019 due to a delay in seeking medical attention. He was a 51-year-old retired police officer who collapsed and died at his home in Uasin Gishu County. Reports show that the man experienced chest pains and other symptoms days before he died. His delay was possibly due to concerns about the cost of healthcare and the perception that his symptoms were not severe for urgent care.
The Doctors Say
According to the doctors and medical specialists, men avoid the medical institution since they may downplay or ignore symptoms, attributing them to less serious causes or hoping they will resolve on their own. Being diagnosed with a serious health condition may invoke fear to men, which can lead to denial or avoidance of seeking medical advice. The pride of a man, the family, work, and responsibilities can make it challenging for men to prioritize their own health and find time for medical appointments. It may be a shame and a big embarrassment being vulnerable and discussing certain health issues, reproductive health, mental health or sexual function, could lead to judgment or stigma from healthcare providers, peers, or society at large.
Financial considerations can deter men from seeking medical attention, especially if they lack adequate health insurance coverage. Perhaps the man is the breadwinner, which in most cases it is, a man cannot prioritize on his health more than the role of providing. Human is to error and some men may have negative experiences with a healthcare provider, system, or procedure which can contribute largely in reluctance in seeking medical attention.
It may be a shame and a big embarrassment being vulnerable and discussing certain health issues, reproductive health, mental health or sexual function, could lead to judgment or stigma from healthcare providers, peers, or society at large.
The Step to be Taken
Men should be encouraged to seek medical attention in the appropriate timing. Create awareness about men seeking help, especially in seeking medical health. Provide information and education on symptoms, risk factors, and the importance of early detection. Some stereotypes, cultural norms and traditional perception that discourage men from seeking medical help should be challenged heavily. Messages that emphasize strength and responsibility in taking care of one’s health should be promoted and prioritized.
Encourage men to establish a relationship with a primary care provider and schedule regular check-ups, even when feeling healthy. Emphasize the value of preventive care in maintaining overall health and detecting problems early. Improving access to healthcare services by addressing barriers such as cost, transportation, and availability. Offer flexible appointment scheduling options to accommodate busy work schedules.
Highlight the importance of age-appropriate screenings (e.g., for blood pressure, cholesterol, prostate health) and vaccinations (e.g., flu shots, HPV vaccine). Provide information on where and how to access these services. Implement targeted health campaigns and outreach programs specifically tailored to men’s health issues. Use diverse communication channels (e.g., social media, community events) to reach a broad audience. Partner with employers to promote workplace wellness programs that encourage regular health check-ups and provide resources for preventive care. Offer incentives or benefits for participating in health screenings. Foster peer support networks where men can openly discuss health concerns and share experiences.
Partner with employers to promote workplace wellness programs that encourage regular health check-ups and provide resources for preventive care. Offer incentives or benefits for participating in health screenings.
Highlight positive role models who prioritize health and advocate for regular medical attention. Leverage digital health tools and telemedicine platforms to make healthcare more accessible and convenient for men. Provide information on how to use these tools effectively for scheduling appointments or accessing medical advice remotely. Engage families and communities in promoting men’s health awareness. Encourage family members to support and encourage men to prioritize their health and seek medical attention when needed.
The perception that men should not be vulnerable is greatly rooted in the traditional norms. However, this perspective is getting eradicated as times goes by. Despite the stereotypes of the society, men seeking medical attention is positive. With continued efforts to promote health awareness, reduce stigma, and provide accessible healthcare services, more men are likely to prioritize their health and well-being, leading to improved overall health outcomes.
