The Hidden Health Risk: How Traditional Masculinity Affects Men’s Cardiovascular Care

Cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of death globally, yet early detection and prevention efforts are often hindered by sociocultural pressures. Research from the University of Chicago Medical Center reveals that men who embody traditional masculine behaviors are less likely to seek diagnoses or treatments for cardiovascular risk factors.

Key Findings:

1. Men adhering to stereotypical gender norms are less likely to report cardiovascular disease risk factor diagnoses or treatments.
2. Up to 75% of young adults with hypertension and high cholesterol are unaware of their conditions.
3. Traditional masculine behaviors discourage health-seeking behaviors, including substance use and rejection of medical therapies.

The Study:

Analyzing data from over 12,300 participants in the Add Health study (1994-2018), researchers measured male gender expressivity and its link to cardiovascular disease prevention.

The Impact of Gender Norms:

Lead author Nathaniel Glasser, MD, notes, “Male gender and male sex are associated with lower help-seeking for health conditions… We probed further into the social processes through which male gender is created.”

The Risks:

Men with higher male gender expression were:

1. Less likely to report receiving diagnoses for cardiovascular disease risk conditions.
2. Less likely to report taking medication for diagnosed conditions.

The Consequences:

Missed opportunities for prevention and alleviation of serious cardiovascular conditions later in life.

Breaking the Mold:

It’s essential to address these sociocultural pressures and encourage men to prioritize their health.

Call to Action:

Healthcare providers, policymakers, and communities must work together to:

1. Promote health-seeking behaviors among men.
2. Encourage open discussions about cardiovascular health.
3. Develop targeted interventions to address traditional masculine norms.

Sources:

• University of Chicago Medical Center
• Add Health study

Related Articles:

• “The Silent Killer: Why Men Need to Prioritize Cardiovascular Health”
• “Breaking Down Barriers: Men’s Mental Health and the Importance of Seeking Help”
• “Rethinking Masculinity: How Traditional Gender Norms Impact Men’s Well-being”

Share Your Thoughts:

How can we encourage men to prioritize their cardiovascular health? Share your thoughts in the comments below!