Updated 6.10.2026
In general, women are healthier than men. Men have higher rates of death from most of the leading causes, deal with more chronic conditions and have a shorter life span by about six years. Why? One reason is that men are often more reluctant to visit the doctor than women. According to one study, 24% of men had not seen a doctor during the previous year, compared to only 8% for women.
Because men frequently wait until they have been experiencing symptoms for a long time before they make an appointment, diseases have often progressed by the time they see a doctor. This leads to higher death rates from some serious illnesses. For example, while 50% more women are diagnosed with melanoma than men, deaths from the disease are 50% higher in men.
Additionally, mens’ reluctance to visit a healthcare provider often means that they skip preventive health checkups and routine health screenings. As a result, many men do not get their blood pressure checked regularly or have screenings for cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes and other serious conditions.
Why Do Men Wait?
Research suggests there are several reasons why many men are less than enthusiastic about going to the doctor. In surveys, men report not having health insurance, lack of time, and being afraid of what the doctor might tell them as reasons they skip making appointments. Studies have also shown that gender roles play a big part, as many men feel that it is not masculine to go to the doctor and that women have more health issues to worry about.
Preventive Health Checkups
It is recommended that men ages 18 and older have yearly physical exams to get any necessary preventive screenings, determine risk for future health problems, and talk with the doctor about any concerns.
At the exam, your doctor will check your height, weight, body mass index, and blood pressure; administer any necessary vaccines based on your age; and talk with you about getting screened for certain conditions based on your age and other health factors, such as weight, lifestyle, and family medical history.
Recommended screenings may include:
- Cholesterol, starting at age 40 for men with no risk factors for heart disease and age 20 for men with risk factors
- Diabetes screenings are recommended beginning at age 35 for adults who are overweight or obese and should be repeated at least every three years if results are normal.
- Colorectal cancer, starting at age 45 or for younger men with a family history of colon cancer or polyps
- Men ages 50-69 should discuss the benefits and risks of prostate cancer screening with their healthcare provider. Men at higher risk may benefit from starting the conversation as early as age 40-45.
The doctor may also discuss your diet and activity levels, mental health, alcohol and tobacco use, and recommended preventive screenings based on your age, personal health history, and risk factors. They may also suggest lifestyle changes to help improve your overall health and well-being.
Take charge of your health by scheduling an appointment with an Altru primary care provider. Call 701.780.5000 or book your appointment through MyChart.
