Global Analysis Reveals Men Are More Susceptible to Common Diseases and Less Likely to Seek Medical Care

Recent global research highlights significant gender disparities in health outcomes, revealing that men are more prone to certain illnesses and less likely to access healthcare services. The study, led by Angela Chang from the University of Southern Denmark, analyzed data across multiple countries focusing on three prevalent conditions: hypertension, diabetes, and HIV/AIDS. The findings indicate that males experience higher rates of these diseases and associated mortality compared to females.

The research underscores that men are often less engaged in preventive health measures and less inclined to seek medical attention, which can exacerbate health risks. In many nations, differences between males and females were observed at various stages along the health pathway—ranging from exposure to risk factors through diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes. For instance, males in multiple countries had less diagnosis and treatment for hypertension, diabetes, and HIV/AIDS.

Additionally, the study found behavioral patterns contributing to these disparities: higher smoking rates among men, greater obesity prevalence among women, and varying sexual health behaviors. Public health experts emphasize the need for targeted strategies that encourage men to participate more actively in preventive care and health services.

The researchers advocate for enhanced collection of sex-disaggregated health data, which is critical to identifying gaps and designing equitable health policies. As Professors Kent Buse and Sarah Hawkes of Global 50/50 suggest, analyzing health data through a gender lens reveals where health journeys diverge and guides more effective, socially-just interventions. Angela Chang stresses that without detailed sex-based data, health systems remain blind to critical disparities and are less effective in reducing health inequities. Moving forward, integrating gender-sensitive approaches into healthcare can help address these persistent differences and improve health outcomes for all.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-males-sick-common-diseases-global.html