Mays Ibrahim (ABU DHABI)
Every November, men around the world grow their mustaches to observe “Movember”, a campaign dedicated to raising awareness about men’s health issues.
As this month-long initiative kicks off, healthcare professionals in the UAE are urging men to be proactive, to have regular check-ups, and to engage in open conversations about their health.
The Stigma Surrounding
Men’s HealthIn an interview with Aletihad, Dr. Asheesh Kaul, a Consultant Urologist at Healthpoint, noted that societal attitudes are often one of the factors that discourage men from seeking healthcare. “Men, traditionally, tend to be stoic; they think they should simply ‘soldier on’ through health issues,” he said.
This mindset leads to late diagnoses of medical conditions, often when diseases are more advanced and harder to treat, Dr. Kaul added. Movember serves as a vital platform to challenge these stereotypes, urging men to view healthcare as a necessary aspect of their wellbeing rather than a sign of weakness.
Dr. Kaul pointed to the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding common male health issues - like prostate enlargement or sexual dysfunction - to help men feel more comfortable discussing their health. “Prostate problems are a normal fact of life for men as they age. Education is the first step in de-stigmatising these conversations,” he said.
The Importance of Early Screening
One of the primary focuses of Movember is promoting early screening, particularly for prostate cancer. In an interview with Aletihad, Dr. Waleed A. Hassen, Chair of Urology at the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, highlighted the importance of early detection as key to favourable treatment outcomes: “Prostate cancer is often silent until it’s too late. Regular screening can catch it early when it is most treatable.”
He advocates for men to have their first prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test at the age of 50, or earlier at 40 if there is a family history of the disease.
Dr. Hassen noted that screening methods have improved significantly, with non-invasive tests available that require only a simple blood sample. “Men need to be proactive about their health,” said Dr. Hassen. “If they notice changes or symptoms, they should not hesitate to seek help.”
Addressing Obesity and Its Health Implications
Another pressing issue highlighted during Movember is obesity, which has significant repercussions for men’s health, according to experts.
Dr. Kaul explained that excess weight can lead to lower testosterone levels, increasing the risk of a variety of health problems, including heart disease and fertility issues.
Dr. Hassen emphasised the importance of lifestyle changes, such as improved diet and regular exercise, in mitigating these risks.
Leveraging Technology for Better Health Outcomes
Advancements in medical technology are also transforming men’s healthcare, particularly in the field of urology.
Dr. Rozh Jalil, a Consultant Urologist at Mubadala Health Dubai, explained how robotic-assisted surgeries have revolutionised procedures like varicocele repairs.
“Robotic technology allows for minimally invasive surgery, which means less pain and faster recovery for patients,” he told Aletihad.
Moreover, the use of advanced imaging techniques for prostate cancer diagnosis has made it easier to detect abnormalities at earlier stages. “These technologies are making it easier to treat conditions effectively and with fewer complications,” Dr. Jalil added.