Men tend to visit their GP less frequently than women, and when they do visit they may be reluctant to talk about conditions they find embarrassing or worrying. A health MOT is an opportunity to screen for conditions that commonly affect men, as well as talking through any immediate concerns. It may also be useful to examine medical history, assess potential risk factors and take alleviating action.
Some of the medical concerns that particularly concern men:
- Heart disease and heart attacks – caused by hardening of the arteries exacerbated by high blood pressure, cholesterol, poor diet, smoking and obesity
- Enlarged prostate – symptoms include difficulty passing urine and the need to urinate frequently and urgently.
- Prostate cancer – you are more susceptible if a close relative has had it, but there is some suggestion that weight can be a factor.
- Testicular health – men should see their GP if they notice changes, lumps, swelling or pain in the testicle area.
- Erectile dysfunction – the inability to get or maintain an erection, this may be a precursor of a serious physical illness, or an outward signal of emotional distress.
- Depression – men may hide feelings of depression with outward anger or by drinking too much.
- Type 2 Diabetes – develops slowly due to increasing sugar levels in the blood, but this disease has hugely serious physical implications. It tends to be exacerbated by obesity, but can be prevented by weight loss and eating a healthy diet.
HOW WEIGHTMATTERS CAN HELP
DOCTOR
Our doctor will check your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels, perform a thorough examination and provide a confidential ear for any concerns – referrals will be made if necessary.
DIETICIAN
Our dietician will design a nutritionally balanced programme to support weight loss or the treatment of any medical conditions
INDIVIDUAL THERAPY
Our therapists will provide support for any emotional distress you have regarding your medical issues, and explore any psychological reasons that may underlie your physical symptoms