Men’s Health Week: Why It’s Time to See the Doctor — Even If You’re Nervous

Men’s Health Week runs June 9–15, and it’s a reminder that taking care of your health starts with a simple step: going to the doctor. Yet many American men continue to avoid routine medical visits, even when they’re needed most.

The numbers tell the story. According to UAB Medicine, only about 60 percent of American men between the ages of 22 and 65 get a yearly physical. Instead, many wait until something is seriously wrong before they seek care. The Cleveland Clinic found that about 65 percent of men avoid going to the doctor for as long as they can, even when they know they should go.

Dr. Patrick Selph, a urologist at UAB Medicine, sees the effects of this every day. He says that many men come in with a minor complaint — maybe a urinary tract infection or discomfort — only to discover they’re also living with undiagnosed diabetes or high blood pressure. These are conditions that, when caught early, can often be managed or even prevented.

“When men skip their annual physicals, they’re missing out on early warning signs,” Selph explains. “That delay in care can lead to serious health problems that could have been treated earlier.”

So why are so many men staying away from the doctor’s office? According to Nashville Medical News, the reasons vary. Some men face real barriers, like cost, inadequate insurance, or a lack of nearby providers. Others simply don’t feel they have the time.

But even when care is available, many men still choose to stay away. Surveys from Texas Health show that about one in four men has felt judged by a doctor, and nearly half worry about awkward conversations—especially those involving sexual health. Other common concerns include being asked about exercise habits, alcohol or tobacco use, or whether they’re sticking to their prescribed treatments.

The fear of being judged or having to talk about uncomfortable topics can be enough to keep someone away for years. But that silence can come with a cost.

“One of the biggest things we try to communicate,” says Dr. Selph, “is that your health isn’t just about you. It impacts your entire family—your spouse, your kids, your parents. Taking care of yourself helps protect them, too.”

Routine visits give doctors a chance to catch serious problems before they get worse. They can check your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and weight and offer help with mental health, nutrition, and overall wellness. And importantly, they allow time for open, private conversations about men’s health topics that don’t always come up in day-to-day life.

Men’s Health Week is the perfect time to make that first appointment—or to remind someone you care about to do the same. It’s never too late to start taking your health seriously. Annual checkups, honest conversations, and regular monitoring are simple, powerful ways to stay strong for yourself and the people who depend on you.

So if it’s been a while since your last physical, don’t wait for something to go wrong. Make the call. Book the appointment. Ask the questions. You’ve got more to gain than you might think.