As June marks Men’s Health Month, it casts a spotlight on a persistent challenge – South African men are significantly less likely than women to seek medical advice or attend regular health screenings.
Despite increased access to health information in today’s digital age, many South African men remain under-engaged in managing their own health. Using hypertension as an example, studies show men lag behind in hypertension awareness and treatment – often due to sociocultural norms, economic pressures, and limited healthcare access during working hours. Health experts and industry leaders are now calling for a shift in approach to better support men in managing their long-term health, starting with how to use digital resources effectively.
The digital divide in men’s health-seeking behaviour
While men are active internet users, they tend to search for health-related information online far less frequently than women. A large-scale German study involving over 950 patients found that women are not only more inclined to search for health information online, but also do so with stronger emotional and social motivations.
The study also revealed that men and women differ in how they interact with healthcare professionals online. Men, for instance, showed more interest in developing virtual relationships with their general practitioners, such as through online consultations, booking appointments digitally and receiving test results via email. These findings suggest that digital health tools should be tailored differently for men and women – with women responding more to socially driven, engaging content and men potentially benefiting more from structured virtual health services offered by GPs and clinics.
Similar patterns of gender differences in online health-seeking behaviour have been observed in studies from various countries, indicating that this trend is consistent across different cultures and regions worldwide.
The potential of AI in men’s health
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionising healthcare by providing personalised health information and recommendations. AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants can offer immediate responses to health queries, helping men make informed decisions about their health. These tools can guide users on when to seek professional medical advice, interpret symptoms and even schedule appointments.
Nicole Jennings, spokesperson for Pharma Dynamics, emphasises the importance of leveraging digital tools for health. “Men often delay seeking medical advice due to various reasons, including societal expectations and time constraints. Embracing digital health tools can bridge this gap, offering accessible and immediate health information that encourages proactive health management.”
The importance of regular health screenings
Regular health screenings are vital for early detection and prevention of diseases. Jennings says men between 45 and 50 should undergo physical exams and screenings for conditions, such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes and prostate cancer, annually. Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and can prevent complications.
“A lack of action can result in late diagnoses of conditions that might have been more easily managed or treated if detected earlier,” she adds.
Jennings offers the following practical tips to help men make better use of online health resources:
- Use credible sources: Rely on reputable websites, such as the National Department of Health and the World Health Organisation. MyDynamics, is another credible website that was developed by Pharma Dynamics to provide South Africans with quality information relating to various health conditions.
- Leverage AI tools responsibly: Utilise AI-powered health apps and chatbots for preliminary assessments and to understand symptoms. Do keep in mind, however, that AI can make mistakes and it should not be used to replace the advice or diagnosis of a qualified healthcare professional.
- Schedule regular screenings: Use online platforms to book appointments for routine health check-ups and screenings.
- Stay informed: Subscribe to health newsletters and follow trusted health organisations on social media to stay updated on health tips and news.
- Engage in online communities: Participate in online forums and support groups to share experiences and gain insights into managing health conditions.
Men’s Health Month serves as a reminder for South African men to take proactive steps towards their health. “By embracing online resources and AI tools, men can overcome barriers to accessing health information and services,” emphasises Jennings. “Regular health screenings, informed by credible online information, can lead to early detection and better health outcomes. It’s time for men to prioritise their health by utilising the digital tools at their disposal.”
