This Is How You Should Talk to Your Son About Men’s Health Issues

Family CounselingJune 3, 2020

Did you have an open discussion with your dad regarding your health issues? In all probability, the answer is NO. A national survey recorded that 62% of the fathers nowadays wish their father had been more friendly and uninhibited about discussing health issues. 43% of the fathers, whose family shies away from discussing health issues, want to deviate from the so-called normal path. Physicians suggest that it is important for fathers to have a talk with their sons about the “man issues.” It might be uncomfortable, a bit awkward, or uncoordinated. If you are a father to a young son, and not too comfortable about having the “talk,” remember that your little one’s health is a priority. So, there is no alternative way to do this, however, it is possible to avoid the awkwardness, and here’s how you could do it.

Things Are Looking Up

In 2017, a survey was conducted on 500 males, above the age of 18, nationally traversing across religion, ethnicity, and age. All the males were fathers themselves or had their fathers or father figures at the time of growing up. 70% of the total people surveyed, said that their respective families were open and candid while discussing health issues. Approximately, two-thirds of the rest wished their fathers had thought about it. Some said that they were oblivious about the track record of their family health and wouldn’t have known anything had they not paid a visit to the family doctor.

Silence Is Not Strength

Many believe that it’s better to stay silent than to cause the family a needless concern or worry. So, they refrain from discussing any health problems with their family members. However, remember that this might put your next generation’s health at risk too, so it is often advisable to break the shackles of silence and have the talk. For instance, some people have blood in their urine and they prefer to ignore it. When things get worse, they consult a doctor and come to know that bladder cancer is the reason. Just think about it! If it would have been taken care of at the right time, it would have been diagnosed and cured. Do you think discussing certain words are taboo? But, is your health not more important than what others might think?

Ignorance Is Danger If You Have A Family History Of Cancer

Some families are more vulnerable to cancer than a few others. If your family has a history, it is important for you to talk it out with your son. Most people, in the case of prostate cancer, are unaware that the family does have a history of the disease. Discussing the men’s health issues that your family or you faced, with your son will make him sit up, take notice, and in a way save his life. Prostate or Colon cancer is somewhat genetic and members of the family might inherit it. If any of your family members was diagnosed with prostate cancer previously, make sure your son gets a thorough check-up at the right age. Africans-Americans are pretty much prone to these diseases and in case there is a mention of these in the family health history, screenings should be done at appropriate times. Testicular cancer can affect a male right from the age of 15 and teaching your son to do a self-examination can be a way to prevent this disease, as 98% cases have been cured if treated at a correct juncture.

The Value Of A Doctor’s Opinion

In most families, sons are closer to their mothers over their fathers and might be comfortable talking to them than with their dad. They might also choose their father-figures over their biological fathers when this topic comes into the fray. However, communication shouldn’t end there, consulting and discussing the concerns with a physician is a must too. This will help your little one find the right diagnosis, screenings, and tests at the right time.

Your family doctor shall show you the right path and also recommend the right person for treatment.
Always remember that talking about health and medical issues of men is important just like it is to discuss the importance of being financially responsible or the importance of life. Yes, it’s uncomfortable initially. But, keep in mind that you need to take the lead here for the well-being of your son.