If you are worried about someone that you know be it husband, partner, dad, grandfather, son, brother or friend, then the most important thing that you can do is to encourage that man to make an appointment to see their GP.
Things that you can do
- Know the signs and symptoms of prostate disease and prostate cancer ;
- Know what the risk factors are for prostate cancer and maybe chat to him about it or if he knows there is in his family. See leaflet Prostate Cancer – Is it in the family?;
- Try to talk to him about what you’ve noticed and explain it is much better to be checked out early;
- Perhaps provide him with some information leaflets to read in his own time;
- Encourage him to talk to other men such as friends, workmates many of whom may have had similar experiences;
- Book an appointment for him to see his GP, perhaps going with him for company.
Why won’t men see their GP?
There are usually a variety of reasons for men not seeing their GP:
- Often fearful of what doctor might say or tell them about a diagnosis;
- They are anxious about the tests and some examinations;
- They may feel a bit embarrassed by the problem as it has to do with passing urine and for some sexual function;
- They are strong willed – and are under the false impression real men don’t have problems ‘down there’;
- They are misled – thinking that nothing can be done and they need to live with their symptoms and why bother;
- Getting time off work to attend the appointment.
How might you be able to help men in your family?
You might want to start thinking about what is meant by healthier lifestyle choices that you may like to consider for the man’s prostate health and in fact the whole family’s general health and well-being. Lifestyle choices are more than just about the food you eat – it’s also about exercise, weight, alcohol and smoking.
Generally doctors agree that men with an average risk of prostate disease and prostate cancer should try to make choices that benefit their overall health by choosing healthier foods, taking regular exercise, stopping smoking and keeping alcohol within recommended guidelines.
At the moment there is no sure way or quick fix miracle nutrient, supplement or diet to prevent prostate disease or prostate cancer and it may be a case of considering changing your whole way of eating and choosing healthier foods. Involving the whole family in making healthier food choices may make it easier and may benefit their general health and well-being.
Please click to find out more about healthier lifestyle choices.