As part of Men’s Health Month this June, Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health cover, urges men to examine their health and learn to recognise the body’s early warning signs before silence becomes fatal.
“Too many men wait until they’re in crisis to see a doctor,” says Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health.
“By that point, the condition may advance or require more aggressive treatment. If we get men to act early, even if they think it’s ‘nothing’, we could save countless lives.”
Here are 10 warning signs that no man should ignore:
- Chest Pain, Pressure or Tightness
It’s not always a heart attack, but it could be. Any chest pain, squeezing, or heaviness that lasts longer than a few minutes, mainly if it spreads to the arm, shoulder, neck, or jaw, needs immediate attention. Heart disease is still the leading cause of death in South African men.
- Unexplained Weight Loss
Losing weight without dieting or exercising might seem like a bonus, but it’s often a red flag. Cancers of the stomach, pancreas, colon, or lungs can cause rapid weight loss. So can diabetes, an overactive thyroid, or an infection. If you lose more than 4–5kg in a month without trying, speak to your doctor.
- Constant Fatigue
Not just “I’m tired from work” fatigue. We’re talking about intense, ongoing exhaustion that doesn’t improve with sleep. It can signal low testosterone, anaemia, thyroid issues, depression, sleep apnea, or something even more serious like heart or kidney disease.
- Trouble Urinating
Frequent urination, especially at night, a weak stream, or pain while urinating could indicate an enlarged prostate, a common issue in men over 50. In some cases, it could also point to prostate cancer, the second most common cancer among South African men.
- Blood in Urine, Stool or Cough
Even small traces of blood should never be ignored. Blood in your stool might indicate haemorrhoids or colon cancer. Blood in the urine may signal bladder or kidney disease. Coughing up blood should always be investigated immediately.
- Shortness of Breath
Getting winded easily while doing daily tasks could mean something is affecting your lungs or heart. Conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, congestive heart failure, or anaemia are all possibilities.
- Lumps or Swelling
Found a lump on your testicle, neck, breast, or under your arm? Don’t wait to see if it goes away. Testicular cancer, for example, while rare, often strikes younger men, and it’s highly treatable when caught early. A healthcare professional should examine any unexplained swelling or masses.
- Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Beyond affecting confidence and relationships, ED can be a predictor of cardiovascular disease. It’s often an early sign of narrowed arteries, high cholesterol, or diabetes. The penis, like any organ, needs good blood flow—and ED might be a warning your heart isn’t pumping as it should.
- Mental Health Changes
Irritability, sadness, anxiety, isolation, or forgetfulness may be dismissed as stress or “just a phase”. However, these symptoms may signal depression, anxiety, or even early-onset cognitive decline. Mental health is health and should be treated with the same urgency as physical symptoms.
- Ongoing Digestive Issues or Heartburn
Occasional indigestion is regular, but chronic heartburn, bloating, or difficulty swallowing could be signs of ulcers, acid reflux, or something more serious, like stomach or oesophageal cancer. If you’re using antacids daily, it’s time to get checked.
Studies show that men are far less likely to attend annual health screenings or act on symptoms compared to women. Many fear diagnosis, feel uncomfortable discussing intimate or “embarrassing” symptoms, or believe they need to “tough it out”. Access to clinics and male doctors can be another barrier in rural areas. In urban areas, busy work schedules and stigma around mental health often get in the way. The result? Late diagnoses, costly treatments, and lives lost too soon.
Men’s Health Screening Checklist
- Blood Pressure Check – Annually from age 20.
- Blood Sugar Test (Glucose) – Every 1–3 years after age 35 or sooner with risk factors.
- Cholesterol Test – Every 4–6 years from age 20.
- Prostate Health Check – Starting at age 40–45 for high-risk men.
- Testicular Self-Exam – Monthly from age 15–40.
- Colon Cancer Screening – From age 45 or earlier if there is a family history of this condition.
- HIV & STI Testing – Annually if sexually active.
- BMI and Waist Circumference – Yearly to assess obesity risk.
- Mental Health Check-ins – As needed, don’t ignore changes in mood or energy.
- Skin and Mole Check – Annually, if exposed to the sun often or with a family history of skin cancer.
Conclusion
Men’s Health Month is more than a reminder; it’s a call to action. Your body often sends early signals when something’s wrong. Ignoring those signs doesn’t make you stronger—it risks your health and future. Whether it’s a strange lump, ongoing fatigue, or changes in mood or digestion, listening to your body could save your life. Affinity Health offers affordable Day-to-Day and Hospital Plans that give men access to routine screenings, GP consultations, mental health support, chronic condition management, and specialist referrals when needed.
About Affinity Health
Affinity Health is South Africa’s leading health cover provider, offering you a range of options at affordable rates, including access to the widest national provider network. We understand the importance of having medical insurance that meets your needs, budget, and lifestyle. Our healthcare products are designed to protect you and your family when it matters the most. We strive to give our clients peace of mind and the highest standard of service. For more information, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.