I can totally relate to the idea that men have a resistance to having a check-up. Especially if they haven’t had any serious health issues themselves or have a family member whose had one. It’s the same reason men will not stop and ask for directions. It’s definitely that ‘machismo’ aspect of ‘I’m ok Jack.’
The last time I had a checkup it was triggered by a symptom that could have indicated either a serious condition or something failry inconsequential. The results showed that I was fine — in fact in pretty good shape for my age. That was about six years ago and I am now overdue for my next check-up.
I used this link to check my disease risk for prostate cancer and found that it’s below average.
So what’s my point? It is that nobody should be lulled into a false sense of security by positive feedback and occurances. Your health is far too important and early detection is an advantage. Take the plunge. Especially if you are over 50. According to the American Cancer Society getting screened helps find the disease in it’s early stages but that still doesn’t guarantee a complete cure and the treatments can cause other conditions. But what’s the alternative?
Make the the call, get the test and then you can get on with your life until the same time next year.