SEARCH THIS WEBSITE
We can stay healthy throughout our life but this relies on us seeking professional medical support when needed.
We are not so far away from a medical revolution. Within a decade or two, we should be able to regenerate rather than repair cells in our body, yet we still at times struggle to answer basic questions about ourselves.
Amongst these is the differences between men and women, not obvious, physical differences but more subtle variations. These include the approach of men to keeping themselves healthy and to medical treatment.
Modern men are much more in tune with health needs the media tell us, whilst research shows this to be a tenuous thought. The struggle to get men to seek early stage medical care, or follow treatment paths has not gone away.
Wired differently
The latest scanning equipment has been used to study the differences in men’s and women’s brains. Overall, male brains have more connections within the left and right hemispheres, whereas female brains are more connected between hemispheres.
Variations are notable in individuals but in general, men are likely to have better motor and spatial skills. Women tend to have a higher aptitude for combining analytical and intuitive, or logical thinking.
The difference suggests an explanation for men not seeking treatment but we should be cautious on assuming this. Male to female variations are not substantial and reduce with age but behavioural patterns may change less.
Nature Or Nurture
An unanswered question on brain function differences is the extent to which they are innate, or whether they are created in our pliable brains as we go through life.
Men’s attitude to their health are linked to gender norms, where being tough and resilient matters. Focusing time on health matters can be perceived as being weak, as can seeking medical support.
Men are more likely to hide symptoms, rather than recognise them as serious, or camouflage the way they feel, rather than appear vulnerable. Excuses for not being able to see a doctor can be manifestations of this.
No surprise that men are classed as hard to reach on preventative healthcare programs as well as for treatment, extra encouragement can be required. This applies to many dermatological conditions, although one above all.
Skin Cancer Differences
Men are more susceptible to serious illnesses than women and have a lower life expectancy. They are more likely to be risk takers, perhaps have a poorer diet but failure to access healthcare in a timely fashion is a greater issue.
This applies to many dermatological conditions but particularly to skin cancer. Delay is the core reason that men bring more cases of multiple skin cancer lesions, or are diagnosed at a harder to treat stage.
There is no reason why men should not take part in skin cancer screening, a good way to ensure conditions are found early. Above all, ignoring symptoms which have become evident can literally be fatal.
We are advancing in so many ways, brain stimulation to improve memory is becoming reality, neurofeedback headbands to improve performance. We still struggle to get men to see a doctor when they should.
Whether you think nature or nurture is to blame, skin cancer treatment for men really is important and life saving. Please seek medical advice when you need to, or encourage those you know to do the same.