Nearly half of British fathers admit that they avoid discussing men’s health issues with their children

Nearly half of British fathers admit that they avoid discussing men’s health issues with their children

A 2009 survey of parents aged 33 and over with children 18 or older found that 65% want them to be more confident when talking about health than they are, with seven in 10 wanting it to be Health conversations are as common as sports talk.

One in three parents said they don’t know how to start a healthy, sensitive conversation. Similarly, 17 percent admitted they struggle to talk about men’s health because they find it embarrassing and uncomfortable.

Not having enough knowledge of the subject matter (20 percent), finding the right “time and place” to talk (17 percent) and not wanting to cause pain (16 percent) were cited as reasons for men not talking openly about their feelings. Sons about male cancer.

the doctor. “Health issues can be taboo, especially among men, as our Break the Silence survey shows,” said Prantik Das, a GenesisCare clinical oncologist who commissioned the research.

“It can be difficult to discuss cancer and many men fear the impact a cancer diagnosis will have on their lives and the lives of their loved ones.

This Father’s Day, we want parents to take the time to talk to their children about the risks — especially those that may be genetic.

“By promoting open dialogue, encouraging early detection and highlighting the innovative treatment options available, we hope to improve outcomes and help more men live healthy, fulfilling lives.”

While more than one in six (18 percent) of parents find it uncomfortable to discuss male cancer screening with their children on a regular basis, the majority (87 percent) think it’s important for their children to know they can talk to them about it.

Nearly nine in 10 (86 percent) agree that it is important for their children to know if they have an increased risk of hereditary cancer to make sure they are aware of the development of any signs and symptoms.

Of those surveyed, 69% would consider genetic testing if a family member has been diagnosed with cancer.

More than three-quarters (79 percent) would like to know more about the signs and symptoms of male cancer in order to provide their children with more guidance during conversations.

And 69 percent would like a better understanding of the latest cancer treatment options available.

Four in five (82 percent) agree that knowing will make them feel more prepared for a self-diagnosis or a family diagnosis.

This Father’s Day, GenesisCare, the UK’s leading independent provider of cancer care, is calling on dads to break the stigma around men talking about health issues, and cancer in particular.

Jeff Seymour, a 65-year-old man, was successfully treated with MRIdian MR Linac in just five days.

In less than a week, he was back to normal – showing the value of early diagnosis and treatment.

Since Jeff’s father died of prostate cancer, he has visited his doctor regularly and is monitoring his PSA levels.

The moment the change was detected, he was booked for treatment – that awareness and quick response were key to his recovery.

Geoff said: “It doesn’t have to be a life-altering illness to encourage men to have a life-saving conversation.

“After watching my father’s radiotherapy experience, I didn’t like the track very much.

Given these concerns, Dr. Prantik Das told me about an innovative radiotherapy treatment available through GenesisCare using MRI technology.

“In just five consecutive days, I was completely cured with just 40 minutes of radiation therapy a day.

“The death of my father encouraged me to consider my own genetic health risks and, in turn, the health risks of my sons, who are now in their 36s and 40s.

“It wasn’t something I’d discussed with them before – but knowing it could save their lives, you can bet I found a way to bring it up.

“It was awkward at first, but now we check in from time to time quite easily.

“I would encourage all men to get over their fears, take a break and just ask.”

Men have a one in two chance of developing cancer in their lifetime, and it is estimated that between three and 10 in 100 cancers in the UK are linked to an inherited gene.

Realizing that it’s not easy for everyone to start conversations about men’s health, an independent cancer provider offers advice on where to start.

GenesisCare conversation starters:

1. Start with empathy: approach the conversation with real care and understanding, emphasizing that you want to support your child’s overall well-being.

2. Choose the right time: Find a comfortable, quiet environment where you and your child can talk openly without distractions.

3. Encourage Questions: Create a safe space for your child to ask any questions they may have. Reassure him that there are no questions that are off-kilter or embarrassing.

4. Connect the dots in the family: Foster an open dialogue, explore your genetic medical history and acknowledge any potential risks, as this will help you determine the most effective approach

5. Use relevant examples: Share stories or examples of people who have overcome health challenges and discuss health checks to emphasize the importance of early detection and prevention.

6. Provide reliable resources: Provide your child with reliable sources of information, such as educational websites or reputable organizations, to encourage further exploration and understanding.

GenesisCare offers a variety of innovative cancer treatments, including MRI-guided precision radiotherapy and curative therapies.

For more information about the signs and symptoms of cancer and the innovative cancer treatments available, visit https://www.genesiscare.com/5dayprostate

By Andrea Hargraves

"Wannabe internet buff. Future teen idol. Hardcore zombie guru. Gamer. Avid creator. Entrepreneur. Bacon ninja."