Parkland experts bust men’s healthcare myths
Men’s Health Week is June 9-15
When it comes to their health, too many men still believe myths. Whether it’s assuming they don’t need regular checkups, downplaying aches and pains or brushing off mental health concerns, the same consequences remain – potential delays in care that could be life-changing, or even lifesaving.
In honor of Men’s Health Week, Parkland Health experts are tackling some of the most common health myths head-on and setting the record straight on what men really need to stay healthy at every stage of life.
Myth #1: “Osteoporosis is only a concern for women.”
The truth: Men account for about one in four osteoporosis-related fractures after age 50. However, men are less likely to be screened or diagnosed for the condition, which can make outcomes worse when fractures do occur. Risk factors include long-term corticosteroids use, smoking, excessive alcohol use, low testosterone levels and an inactive lifestyle.
“Osteoporosis is not just a women’s disease. Men should be aware of their risk factors and talk to their doctor about bone health, said Nathan Boes, MD, Parkland’s Sports Medicine Director. “Some preventive steps men can take to protect their bone density as they age include getting enough calcium and vitamin D, doing weight-bearing exercises and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption.”
Myth #2: “Mental health isn’t a men’s issue.”
The truth: Men are less likely to seek help for mental health issues, but tragically they are four times more likely to die by suicide and are twice as likely to experience substance abuse disorders as compared to women. Breaking the stigma around men’s mental health is critical to saving lives.
“Many men are reluctant to seek help for a medical concern and are even less likely to seek help for mental health. However, there is no health without mental health,” shared Josh Briley, PhD, CCTP, FAIS, Parkland Psychologist Team Lead. “Chronic stress, anxiety and depression exacerbate, or are direct contributors to most medical conditions, including high blood pressure, diabetes, heart conditions, even cancer and stroke.”
Dr. Briley suggests one way to dismantle the stigma surrounding men seeking care for their mental wellbeing is to shift the conversation to focus less on emotions and more on tangible benefits of improved mental health, which include:
- Being more productive at work
- Fewer conflicts at home, work and with friends
- Improved sleep
“Abstract facts and data are unlikely to convince many men to seek help. We have to change the conversation to focus on the importance of mental healthcare,” Dr. Briley said.
Myth #3: “Injuries are just part of staying active as you age.”
The Truth: Staying active as men age is one of the best ways to maintain strength, mobility, mental sharpness and overall quality of life. But doing it safely and sustainably is key
“Respect healing times for muscles, tendons and ligaments. A pulled muscle might take two to six weeks, while more serious injuries, such as a tendon tear take longer to heal,” Dr. Boes said. “Rushing back to activity increases the risk of re-injury, so be sure to ease in gradually.”
Dr. Boes recommends these suggestions when returning to activity after experiencing an injury:
- Start with low-impact movements: walking, cycling or light resistance work.
- Avoid full weight-bearing or high-intensity movements until cleared or pain-free.
- Use the 10% rule: increase your intensity, duration or weight by no more than 10% per week.
Myth #4: “If I feel fine, I don’t need a checkup.”
The Truth: Feeling fine doesn’t always mean you’re healthy. Conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes and even prostate cancer often develop silently, without any obvious symptoms.
Regular checkups when you’re feeling healthy and normal are just as important to your overall health as visits when you’re sick or injured. Annual visits and preventive screenings help detect potential health issues early before symptoms arise. For men ages 55 to 69, it’s especially important to talk with a doctor about a prostate cancer screening.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the following steps to stay on top of your health:
- Schedule regular medical and dental checkups to identify issues early.
- Know your family’s health history, which may put you at a higher risk for chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes or cancer.
- Stay up to date with recommended screenings and vaccinations, especially when it comes to prostate cancer and heart health for men.
Myth #5: “Sleep isn’t that important; I can power through.”
The Truth: Poor sleep has serious health consequences. Chronic sleep deprivation is linked to heart disease, diabetes, weight gain and depression. And it’s not just about quantity; sleep quality matters, too.
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that adults aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night. Quality sleep plays a vital role in supporting brain function, including learning, memory and alertness. It also helps the body heal and recover—supporting physical growth and development, repairing the heart and blood vessels and strengthens your ability to fight off germs and infections.
To improve your sleep habits, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute recommends the following tips:
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, including weekends.
- Avoid heavy meals and alcohol before bedtime.
- Limit or eliminate nicotine and caffeine, which are stimulants that can interfere with sleep quality.
- Create a sleep-friendly environment by keeping your bedroom cool, dark, and free of distracting lights from electronic devices.
Focusing on your health isn’t just about avoiding disease, it’s about living well. And that means confronting the myths, acting early and understanding that prevention is powerful. Parkland’s Access to Care & Coverage Program is located in the neighborhoods where you live and work offering health screenings to help men prioritize their health and get connected to care.
Here are some steps men can take to get started on their wellness journey today:
- Schedule your annual checkup, even if you feel healthy.
- Ask your doctor about age-appropriate screenings (such as cholesterol, cancer and bone density).
- Make mental health part of your wellness routine.
- Stay active, but smart. Adapt your workouts to your body’s needs.
- Get quality sleep, prioritizing 7–9 hours a night.
For more information about services available at Parkland, please visit www.parklandhealth.org.
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