Dr. Adedamola Adeogun
In Nigeria, conversations around men’s health often remain hidden, overshadowed by cultural expectations of toughness and silence, yet, men face unique health challenges ranging from hypertension, diabetes, and prostate disorders to mental health struggles that demand early recognition and proactive care for favourable outcomes.
Studies show that Nigerian men are less likely to seek routine medical check-ups compared to women, often presenting late with advanced complications. This tendency, driven by fear, stigma, or the belief that “real men don’t complain,” costs lives that could have been saved through simple screening and timely intervention.
Good men’s health is not just physical; it is also mental and emotional. Stress, depression, and anxiety are rising but are rarely discussed. Left unchecked, these issues can weaken productivity, relationships, and overall quality of life.
The path forward requires a cultural shift: men must see preventive healthcare as a mark of responsibility, not weakness. Regular exercise, balanced nutrition, moderated alcohol intake, avoiding tobacco, and periodic screenings (blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, and prostate checks after 40) are vital steps.
Health needs are survival needs that must be prioritised and budgeted for like other major living expenses. It is unwise and detrimental to wait for an emergency or advanced stages of disease before seeking professional medical help. Time is of the essence in matters of health, and with ageing comes diverse health challenges, which may come subtly or appear explosively without prior notice.
Nigeria needs its men healthy, present, and strong, not in silence, but in wholeness. A healthier man means a healthier family and a stronger nation.
Dr. Charles Adedamola Adeogun is a General Medical Practitioner