While progress is being made to address health concerns across the continent, most men – especially in Southern Africa – are ignoring health issues due to fear and embarrassment. In fact, studies reveal that men are less likely than women to seek medical help for issues such as communicable and noncommunicable diseases, mental health, substance abuse, physical health issues and stressful life events.

"With June globally recognised as Men's Health Month, isn't it time we had a frank conversation about raising awareness about preventable health problems and encourage early detection and treatment of diseases amongst men," says Isabelle Hagner, Public Health Director MEA – Government Services at International SOS.

"Men often feel like going to the doctor makes them appear weak," adds Hagner. "This deep-rooted avoidance to vulnerability, especially within the older generations, leads to higher diseases and death rates among men – emphasising the urgent need to address this silent pandemic."

Second to hypertension (also known as high blood pressure), cancer is a major public health problem and leading cause of death globally. There were an estimated 20 million new cancer cases and 9.7 million deaths in 2022. While cancer rates are high – lung, colorectal, stomach, liver and prostate cancer are the most common types of cancer in men – with prostate cancer projected to double in South Africa by 2030 and an estimated 220 000 new cases by then.

"There is a two-fold problem," says Dr Chris van Straten, Global Health Advisor: Clinical Governance at International SOS. "The cancer itself, as well as the stigma around testing that leads to delayed testing and diagnosis. The prostate is not easy to access, and most men avoid rectal examination because of embarrassment or fear."

According to the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), findings published by the Pecerpt Report predicted that with escalating cancer incidence in South Africa, an additional R50 billion will be needed by 2030 to mount an effective public health response to cancer.

Many other African countries also face challenges with limited access to adequate cancer care and low screening rates. While these systemic challenges persist across the continent, there remains a powerful opportunity to drive change at a more immediate level - the workplace.

The workplace is not only where many people spend most of their time – it is also an environment where identity, routine and social norms are reinforced. As such, organisations have an important role to play in leading the shift to normalising discussions about health amongst men. Fostering spaces that prioritise mental and physical health has the power to influence men to prioritise their overall wellbeing and save lives.

In celebration of its 40th anniversary, International SOS hosted a special fundraiser in support of the Prostate Cancer Foundation of South Africa. The purpose of this was not only to raise funds for the fight against prostate cancer, but also to sensitise men about the importance of regular testing for cancer and other health related issues. 

"We are proud to have raised R25 000,00 through this initiative, which will go towards supporting research, awareness campaigns and early detection efforts aimed at reducing the impact of prostate cancer on men in South Africa," says Hagner.

Women's health campaigns have gained ground across the African continent, however, there is still much work to be done as far as men are concerned. Organisations that value long-term employee productivity and morale can help with turning the tide by continuing inclusive health and wellness initiatives that actively address both men and women's health needs.

"We need to move away from the mindset that equates strength with silence and instead look toward a new narrative – one where men feel empowered to seek help without shame. By investing in awareness, access to screening, and supportive healthcare programmes, we can ensure that more men across the continent not only live longer, but live better," Hagner concludes.