In the UK, men are statistically more likely to die from preventable health conditions than women. Despite this, many men avoid routine health checks, delay speaking to their GP, and overlook early warning signs of physical and mental illness. This reluctance to engage with healthcare is not only concerning for the individual, but it also places unnecessary pressure on the NHS and businesses through increased absenteeism, presenteeism, and long-term sickness.

At We Are Wellbeing, we believe that breaking down barriers to men’s health screening is essential — not just during Men’s Health Week or awareness campaigns, but all year round.

Understanding the Problem

Health screening is a powerful tool for identifying problems before symptoms appear. For men, this is especially important, as they are often at higher risk for several key conditions:

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK. Over 52,000 men are diagnosed every year, yet early-stage prostate cancer often shows no symptoms.

Testicular cancer is less common but tends to affect younger men and is highly treatable when detected early.

Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of premature death among men.

Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and liver disease are often undiagnosed until serious complications arise.

Mental health issues such as depression and suicide disproportionately affect men, yet many are reluctant to seek help.

Despite these risks, research consistently shows that men are less likely to attend health checks, book GP appointments, or engage with workplace wellbeing services.

The Role of Health Screening

Health screening is not just about finding illness — it’s about empowering individuals with knowledge. By identifying early signs of disease or risk factors, people can take preventive steps, access treatment earlier, and make lifestyle changes that significantly improve their long-term health.

For men, the benefits of regular screening include:

Early detection of life-threatening diseases

Improved outcomes and less invasive treatment options

Personalised health advice and risk assessment

Peace of mind and increased awareness of their own health

A stronger sense of control over their physical and mental wellbeing

Health screening also benefits employers, who can reduce absenteeism, boost productivity, and create a culture of care and prevention within their workforce.

Breaking Down Barriers

There are many reasons why men don’t engage with health screening — stigma, fear, lack of time, or a belief that they should “just get on with it.” At We Are Wellbeing, we understand these barriers and work to address them directly through our inclusive, approachable, and confidential services.

We offer workplace health checks and screening days that bring healthcare directly to employees — reducing time and access issues. Our services are delivered by trained Wellbeing Coaches who are experienced in engaging with men in a relaxed, non-clinical setting. We also tailor our communication to ensure that health messages resonate with men and break down the stigma surrounding sensitive topics like mental health, sexual health, and body image.

What Does a Men’s Health Screening Involve?

A typical men’s health screening might include:

Blood pressure checks – to detect hypertension, a major risk factor for heart attacks and strokes.

Prostate health information – including PSA testing and guidance on recognising symptoms.

Testicular cancer awareness – promoting self-checks and regular monitoring.

Cholesterol and glucose testing – to assess risks of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

Liver function and BMI assessment – with guidance on weight management and alcohol intake.

Mental health screening – offering confidential support and signposting for stress, depression, anxiety, and sleep issues.

All of this is designed to give men a clearer picture of their overall health, encourage lifestyle changes, and prompt follow-up where necessary.

Supporting Men’s Mental Health

It’s impossible to talk about men’s health without addressing mental wellbeing. Suicide is the leading cause of death in men under 50 in the UK. Social expectations around masculinity often discourage men from seeking help or expressing vulnerability.

That’s why our health checks don’t just focus on physical measurements — we include stress awareness, burnout prevention, and mental health screening as part of the package. Our team can signpost employees to further support and, when required, connect them with specialist counselling or therapy services.

By creating a safe, stigma-free environment, we give men permission to prioritise their own wellbeing.

Why Employers Should Get Involved

Businesses play a vital role in supporting the health of their male employees. By investing in on-site screenings, you show that you care about your workforce and are committed to building a healthy, resilient team.

The ROI is clear:

Reduced sickness absence and long-term health issues

Higher staff morale and retention

Early identification of workplace health risks

Improved productivity and engagement

When employees feel their wellbeing is valued, they’re more likely to thrive — both personally and professionally.

A Proactive Approach to Men’s Health

At We Are Wellbeing, we believe prevention is better than cure. That’s why we offer a range of flexible health screening services designed to meet the needs of today’s diverse workforce. Whether it’s a one-off men’s health screening day, part of a wider wellbeing programme, or annual check-ups as part of executive health benefits, we work with businesses across the UK to make health checks easy, impactful, and accessible.

We also provide webinars, digital resources, and awareness campaigns that help spark conversation, reduce stigma, and keep men informed and engaged.

Let’s Start the Conversation

Men’s health shouldn’t be a taboo subject. It should be a normal part of workplace wellbeing strategies — as common as safety inductions or team briefings. The earlier we can spot problems, the more lives we can improve and save.

Encourage the men in your team to prioritise their health. Better still, bring the screening to them.

📞 Get in touch with We Are Wellbeing to learn how our on-site health screening services can support the men in your business.

🌐 www.wearewellbeing.co.uk
✉️ info@wearewellbeing.co.uk 

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