The Color Of Health: The Power Of Early Checkups And Why Black Men Shouldn't Wait To See A Doctor
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When it comes to health, early detection often means the difference between life and death. For Black men in particular, routine checkups and annual screenings are more than just good practice—they are critical. Despite ongoing advancements in medicine, Black men continue to face some of the highest rates of chronic illness and early mortality in the United States. Regular health screenings can play a crucial role in closing that gap.
Statistically, Black men are more likely to develop and die from conditions like heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and certain cancers, particularly prostate and colorectal cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, Black men have the highest cancer death rate of any racial or ethnic group in the U.S.
Luckily, many of these illnesses are preventable or manageable when caught early. Yet, studies show that Black men are less likely than other groups to get regular medical checkups and their yearly screenings. According to Dr. Samantha Somwaru, a family medicine physician, the reasons range from lack of access to healthcare and financial barriers to systemic racism, mistrust of the medical system, and cultural stigma around showing vulnerability.
'As a family physician, I come across many people who don't utilize preventive screenings for various reasons, but some of them truly have limited barriers to getting good care,' Dr. Somwaru explained during a 2023 interview with the Mayo Clinic. 'Racial and social disparities are some examples that continue to exist and affect the entire country, especially the Black population. Each must be examined and addressed to reduce health disparities and save lives.'
She also pointed out that accessibility is a major barrier. Scheduling routine screenings isn't always simple. It often requires reliable transportation, health insurance, health literacy, time off from work, and family support. When these resources are lacking, patients are far less likely to seek preventive care.
Routine medical visits can help identify risk factors long before symptoms show up. Many chronic conditions and cancers, such as hypertension, diabetes, or prostate cancer, often develop silently in their early stages, making regular screenings and lab tests critical for early detection when treatment is most effective.
Preventative care during these visits also reduces the risk of serious illness, as doctors can offer vaccines, suggest lifestyle changes, and recommend proactive treatments. For those already managing chronic conditions, ongoing medical attention helps maintain stability and avoid complications.
Regular checkups also provide a safe space to address mental health concerns, something that's often overlooked, especially among Black men, due to cultural stigma. These appointments can be a gateway to therapy, support services, and broader wellness.
Seeing a doctor early and often shouldn't be a last resort. It's a form of self-respect and empowerment. Reframing healthcare as a proactive, strength-based step—rather than a reaction to sickness—can help dismantle generational barriers to care. Thankfully, community health initiatives, Black-led health organizations, and trusted voices in Black communities are increasingly stepping up to encourage regular screenings and doctor visits among Black men.
For example, the Annual Black Men's Wellness Day, held in various cities, is a community event that focuses on raising awareness about health issues disproportionately affecting Black men and providing free screenings. It's a huge step forward, but real change also starts on an individual level with one person deciding their life and well-being are worth prioritizing.
If it's been a while since your last visit to the doctor, it's important to come prepared with key topics to discuss—especially if you want to take a proactive approach to your health. Start by asking about your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar, as these are vital indicators of heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions that often go unnoticed in their early stages. If you're over 40 or have a family history of cancer, be sure to request screenings for prostate and colon cancer, which are more treatable when caught early.
It's also a good idea to check in on your mental health and share any mood changes, sleep issues, or stress you may be experiencing, as your primary care provider can help connect you with mental health support if needed. Don't forget to review your vaccine status and ask about any recommended boosters or preventative shots. Lastly, take the opportunity to discuss your daily habits, such as diet, exercise, alcohol use, and smoking. Small lifestyle adjustments can have a big impact on your long-term health.
Black men, don't wait for a wake-up call. Early checkups aren't just about avoiding illness, they're about reclaiming control, protecting families, and breaking cycles. Don't wait until something feels wrong. Go to the doctor, ask the hard questions, and advocate for your health because your life depends on it.
SEE MORE:
Why We Need Culturally Competent Doctors
The Color Of Health: Changing The Narrative Around Mental Health In The Black Community
SEE ALSO
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