Why are men afraid to speak up about health?

A recent survey has revealed that over half of American men feel the need to "tough it out" when they don't feel well.

The poll of 2,000 U.S. men found that many feel uncomfortable discussing their current health due to privacy concerns (61%), embarrassment (39%), or fear of feeling less "manly" (17%).

Four in 10 said they’re even afraid to talk about potential health concerns they aren’t currently experiencing. And more than six in 10 said they will feel either insecure in themselves (63%) or lonely (61%) at least occasionally.

Ahead of Men’s Health Week, the study conducted by Talker Research on behalf of Rugiet Health also found that men are least comfortable discussing erectile dysfunction (ED) (38%), obesity (10%), and depression (10%).

Men who said they currently or have previously experienced ED saw a decreased sexual interest (62%), lowered self-confidence (61%), and increased rates of depression (40%).

"Men's health shouldn't be a silent struggle. Taking charge of your well-being, including addressing ED, is a sign of strength, not weakness. You deserve to feel confident and fulfilled in all aspects of your life," says Mike Apostal, CEO of Rugiet Health.

Sixty-eight percent of men with erectile dysfunction said they believe it’s an often-stigmatized condition that can have far-reaching effects on a man's overall well-being.

The surveyed men said it not only affects sexual health but also has the potential to impact self-confidence (58%), personal and romantic relationships (53%), and mental health (49%).

Men with ED believe that their self-confidence (75%), emotional health (64%), and mental health (54%) would all improve if they didn't have the condition.

Apostal emphasized, "ED isn't just about sex. It can be a red flag for serious health issues like heart disease or diabetes. By breaking the stigma and encouraging men to get help, we're helping guys take charge of their health and get back in the game.

“During Men's Health Week, it is crucial to raise awareness about the silent struggles men face and encourage them to seek help when needed. Addressing ED and its potential impact on various aspects of men's lives is an important step in promoting overall health and well-being.”

Survey methodology:
This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 American men was commissioned by Rugiet Health between May 15 and May 20, 2024. It was conducted by market research company Talker Research, whose team members are members of the Market Research Society (MRS) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research (ESOMAR).