• 31% of UK men surveyed  see their doctors less frequently than once a year¹
• Only 14% admit to regular GP check-ups
• Nearly two fifths (39%) don’t bother with the doctor because they can’t get an appointment 
• Almost a third (31%) avoid appointments because they don’t want to cause a fuss 

  Nearly a third (31%) of UK men surveyed are delaying putting off going to the doctors. By visiting their GPs less than once a year, men are potentially risking their long-term health, according to new research by men’s healthcare company, Numan. 
 
Men are not seeing their GPs due to a range of factors, including personality traits such as stubbornness and keeping a stiff upper lip, as well as practical considerations. Difficulty in securing an appointment was listed as the most prominent reason (39%) for avoiding the doctors. A fear of not wanting to cause a fuss (31%) and a concern about inconveniencing doctors (23%) are other prominent factors in not arranging GP visits. Alarmingly, a fifth (20%) of men are not getting seen because they don’t want to know about any potential health problems. 
 
The findings also reveal that only 14% of men go for a check up immediately if a problem arises. A large proportion - just over two-fifths of men (41%) - will only see a doctor if they feel that it is a real necessity. 
 
If in doubt, check it out
Positively, however, Numan’s investigation finds that 21% of UK men surveyed are ensuring they are having check upsI once every six months. This type of proactivity is crucial in avoiding long-term health issues, with highly-regarded longevity experts like Dr Peter Attia arguing that those that take an active role in improving and preserving their health, have more power over their ‘healthspan’ - the period of life lived in good health - and their overall lifespan.
The main reasons driving men to arrange GP appointments are as follows:

1. Physical pain: 63%
2. Fear of cancers: 41% 
3. Mental health worries: 22%
4. Fears of hereditary conditions: 17%
5. Stress: 16% 
6. Sexual health concerns: 14% 

 
Dr Luke Pratsides, head of medical at Numan, said: “These findings are a source of concern. While many men are doing something about their health, many are simply avoiding it and doing nothing, which is the worst thing to do. 

“‘Manning up’, ‘pushing through the pain’ or ‘not wanting to cause a fuss’ might seem noble, but the reality is that by doing this, men across the country are potentially putting themselves at serious risk. 
 
“Health checks and at least once a year are essential to monitoring your health and, crucially, identifying any underlying issues which, if gone unchecked, could prove serious in later life. If you put it off, you’re simply kicking a can down the road. The worst thing you can do is do nothing, so make sure you take the time to speak with a healthcare professional whenever you’re concerned about something.”