6 small steps men can take toward better health

According to the Australian Medical Association, Australian men not only see their GP less often than women, but when they do, it is for shorter consultations, and typically when a condition or illness is advanced.¹

With this year’s theme of Healthy Habits, we look at some of the small changes that can benefit overall health and wellbeing.

In this article

• Make time for mates
• Improve your gut health
• Keep on top of cancer checks
• Look after your heart
• Get your skin checked
• Find a regular GP

1. Make time for your mates

 “According to the Australian Men's Health Forum, having no close friends is as unhealthy as 15 cigarettes a day,” Dr Andy says.

Social connectedness is key to good mental health. When it comes to building and keeping your networks healthy, you can:

• ask a friend to exercise with you
• try out some of your friend’s favourite activities with them
• pick up a new hobby
• sign up for a local or work-based sporting team or club
• check out Act, Belong, Commit’s local activity finder

Although efforts are being made to reduce the stigma associated with seeking help and to promote mental wellbeing among men, Dr Andy says men are far less likely to seek help with physical health concerns - and that this also true of mental health.

If you don’t feel comfortable talking to a friend or family member, your GP can be a great first step to finding support.

2. Improve your gut health

The gut breaks down food and absorbs the nutrients that support your body’s functions. Research suggests your gut microbiome can affect every organ in your body², with links between gut health and:

• the immune system
• mental health
• autoimmune diseases
• endocrine disorders – such as type 2 diabetes
• gastrointestinal disorders – such as irritable bowel syndrome
• cardiovascular disease
• cancer
• sleep

Improving gut health can also help reduce your risk of bowel cancer. Bowel cancer is the third most common internal cancer in Australia³ (after prostate cancer in men and breast cancer in women) - one in 13 Australians will develop bowel cancer. ⁴

As well as talking to your GP about screening, The Gut Foundation says there are simple lifestyle changes that may help:

• eat more high-fibre foods such as wholegrain breads and cereals
• eat less fat, especially saturated fat
• eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and legumes
• drink alcohol in moderation
• quit smoking
• exercise regularly and maintain a normal weight.

3. Keep on top of cancer checks

While rare, testicular cancer is the most common cancer in males aged between 15 – 45⁶, and is also highly treatable if caught early.

Performing a monthly self-check is a simple way to ensure you will notice any changes quickly.

• perform after showering or bathing, in front of the mirror
• check one testicle first, then the other
• gently roll one testicle using the fingers and thumbs of both hands
• feel along the underside of the scrotum to find the epididymis (this feels like tightly curled tubes)
• if you notice any changes, lumps, bumps or swelling, or one or both testes are tender or painful, see your doctor.

With the incidence rate of prostate cancer having roughly doubled since 1982, and as the fifth most common cause of death in men, Dr Andy says it’s a significant cause for concern.

“There is a growing emphasis on early detection and regular screenings. Men are encouraged to have discussions with healthcare professionals about prostate health, understand the potential risks, and take proactive steps for early intervention,” he says.

Some of the factors that can increase your risk of prostate cancer include:⁷

• age, increasing rapidly after 50 years of age
• family history of prostate, breast or ovarian cancer
• a father or brother diagnosed with prostate cancer before the age of 60

There is also an association with high testosterone levels.

While there are no proven ways to prevent prostate cancer, if you have any concerns, it is recommended you talk to your GP about screening.

4. Look after your heart

Coronary heart disease takes more than 17,000 Australian lives each year, with higher rates of death and hospitalisation in men.

When it comes to small steps you can take to look after your heart, the Heart Foundation recommends you:

• chat to your GP about a Heart Health Check
• regularly check your blood pressure
• avoid foods high in saturated and trans fats
• eat healthier fats in foods like nuts, seeds, avocados, and olives
• drink alcohol in moderation
• quit smoking
• exercise regularly and maintain a normal weight.⁸

5. Become familiar with your skin 

Skin cancers account for around 80% of all newly diagnosed cancers every year in Australia.⁹ The Cancer Council reports we have one of the highest incidences of skin cancer in the world - two to three times the rates in Canada, the US, and the UK.

The majority of skin cancers are caused by exposure to the sun. Reduce your exposure year-round by slipping on a hat, sunnies, and UV protective clothing, slopping on some broad-spectrum, water-resistant SPF30 sunscreen, and seeking out shade.     

Getting a regular skin check is the most important way to monitor for skin cancers but it’s also important you keep a close eye on your skin so you can easily spot any new .

• check your entire body – including the soles of your feet, between fingers and toes, and under nails
• undress completely and make sure you have good light
• use a mirror or ask a family member, partner or friend to check hard-to-see spots.

6. Find a regular GP

Maintaining a trusting, long-term relationship with a GP is the best way to ensure you receive consistent, quality healthcare throughout your life.

Having a healthcare professional you feel comfortable visiting sooner rather than later, seeing the same doctor means building a more accurate overall picture of your health.

Look for a GP who:

• you are comfortable being completely open and honest with
• has an interest in any areas of particular concern to you
• meets your particular language or cultural preferences
• is located nearby and has convenient opening hours