Written by Dr Zamiel Hussain, Founder and Lead GP at AccessGP.
GMC-registered GP with a special interest in lifestyle and digital medicine.
Introduction
Each November, Men’s Health Month serves as an important reminder to pause and reflect on physical and mental wellbeing. Across the UK, men remain less likely than women to attend regular GP check-ups, yet more likely to experience preventable illness and shorter life expectancy.
At AccessGP, we see the difference early action can make. From cardiovascular risk screening to mental health support, small proactive steps can protect long-term health and reduce the burden of preventable disease.
Men in the UK live on average four years fewer than women, and over 40% of male deaths occur before the age of 75 (ONS 2024).
This Men’s Health Month, we are encouraging men to engage earlier with their GP, understand their personal risk factors, and prioritise regular health checks.
Why Men Delay Seeing a GP
Research from the Men’s Health Forum shows that almost two-thirds of men delay seeing a doctor even when they have worrying symptoms. Reasons include:
- Fear or denial about what a symptom might mean.
- Work pressure and lack of flexible appointment times.
- Cultural expectations to “put up with it.”
- Limited awareness of the benefits of preventive checks.
The result is that men are often diagnosed later with conditions that could have been managed or even prevented. Heart disease, type 2 diabetes, liver disease, and prostate cancer all carry far better outcomes when caught early.
The Most Common Health Concerns Affecting Men
- Cardiovascular Disease
- The leading cause of death among men in the UK.
- Key risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, poor diet, and inactivity.
- Regular blood pressure checks and cholesterol screening can identify problems before symptoms appear.
- Type 2 Diabetes and Metabolic Health
- One in ten men over 40 has diabetes, with many more undiagnosed.
- Central weight gain, fatigue, and increased thirst are early signs that warrant review.
- Annual blood tests for glucose and HbA1c are simple, fast, and often life-changing.
- Prostate and Testicular Health
- Around 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime.
- A simple PSA blood test and examination can guide further assessment.
- Testicular self-checks remain one of the most effective ways to detect problems early.
- Mental Health
- Suicide remains the leading cause of death for men under 50.
- Depression and anxiety are often underreported and untreated in men.
- Speaking openly and seeking help from a GP is the first and most important step.
Men account for three out of every four suicides in the UK (ONS 2024). Regular check-ins with a GP can help identify early signs of mental health distress.
The Role of Preventive Health Checks
Preventive screening is not just about identifying illness but understanding risk.
At AccessGP, we often recommend that men book a WellMan Health Check that includes:
- Blood pressure, heart rate and BMI assessment
- Cholesterol and diabetes screening
- Liver and kidney function tests
- Testosterone and thyroid profile when clinically indicated
- Lifestyle review including alcohol intake, nutrition and sleep
- Discussion of mood, energy, and stress levels
These consultations help men take control of their long-term health by turning vague concerns into actionable plans.
Lifestyle Matters Too
Prevention is more than tests. Small, consistent lifestyle changes often have the biggest impact.
- Move more: Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
- Eat mindfully: Limit processed foods and aim for at least five portions of fruit and vegetables daily. Reduce alcohol intake or seek help if you’re struggling.
- Sleep adequately: Seven to eight hours per night supports metabolic and mental health.
- Seek support early: Whether for physical or emotional health, early help always leads to better outcomes.
When to Speak to a GP
You should speak to a GP promptly if you notice:
- Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
- Persistent low mood or loss of interest in usual activities
- Changes in urination, particularly at night
- Lumps, swelling or pain in the testicles
- Ongoing digestive issues or blood in stool or urine
These symptoms may not always indicate serious illness but deserve assessment. Acting early ensures faster investigation and treatment when needed.
The AccessGP Approach
AccessGP offers flexible, same-day online GP appointments to make preventive care more accessible. Our doctors are NHS-trained and experienced in both lifestyle medicine and early screening.
Patients can arrange WellMan blood tests, review results with a GP, and create a plan to support long-term health, all through a single, secure platform.
Preventive care works best when it fits around life, not the other way around.
Book Your Men’s Health Check Today
Mark Men’s Health Month by taking the first step toward better health.
Book securely at AccessGP.co.uk to arrange your GP consultation or WellMan screening.
Key sources: Men’s Health Forum (2025) Men and Preventive Care; Office for National Statistics (2024) Male Health and Life Expectancy; NHS Digital (2025) Long-Term Conditions in Men; Samaritans (2024) Suicide Statistics Report; Public Health England (2024) Cardiovascular Disease Profiles.