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Shock Poll: 86% of South African Men Skip Regular Health Check-Ups, Raising Alarms This Movember

As Men’s Health Awareness Month (Movember) gains momentum, a new nationwide survey has revealed an alarming reality: a staggering 86% of South African men are not going for regular health check-ups, placing themselves at heightened risk of preventable illnesses, including prostate cancer.

The findings, released by 1Life Insurance following its recent Movember poll, show that only 14% of men undergo routine health screenings, while 33% admit they only seek medical help when symptoms arise. Health experts warn that this reactive approach undermines early detection, which is often the difference between life and death.

Prostate cancer risk rising – and early screening remains low
According to the National Cancer Registry, South African men face a 1 in 16 lifetime risk of developing prostate cancer – the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men globally. Black men, in particular, face a higher likelihood of developing aggressive forms of the disease.

“Early detection is one of the strongest tools we have,” says Dr Avron Urison, Chief Medical Officer at 1Life Insurance. “But without regular screenings, many men only discover prostate cancer when it has progressed, limiting treatment options.”

Risk factors include age, genetics, obesity, and lifestyle choices. Poor diets, physical inactivity, alcohol consumption and smoking significantly increase the likelihood of developing prostate cancer.

Fast food culture fuelling an unhealthy future
Dr Urison notes that rapid urbanisation is reshaping South Africa’s eating habits – and not for the better.

“With more men turning to fast food, sugary drinks and processed meals, we’re seeing a worrying rise in lifestyle-related risks,” he explains. “A diet lacking in fruits and vegetables plays a major role in increasing prostate cancer risk.”

Despite these dangers, 45% of men surveyed said they simply do not know where to begin when it comes to health screenings, reflecting a critical gap in health education.

Breaking the silence around men’s health
Experts urge families, workplaces and communities to normalise conversations about men’s health.
“Health-related education is vital,” says Dr Urison. “The more we talk, the more men feel comfortable sharing their concerns and taking steps toward preventative care.”
Prostate cancer often runs in families, making it essential for men to know their family health history – particularly if a father, brother or close relative has had prostate or breast cancer.

Prevention saves lives – and protects families
Preventative healthcare not only reduces mortality but also shields families from the financial and emotional burden of delayed diagnoses. Untreated disease disrupts households, impacts productivity and places further strain on South Africa’s already overstretched healthcare system.

This Movember, men are encouraged to:
Schedule annual health screenings, even when feeling healthy
Adopt healthier lifestyle habits, including balanced diets and regular exercise
Speak openly about their health to help break the stigma surrounding men’s wellbeing

A call to action this Movember
“As we raise awareness this Movember, we encourage South African men to take proactive steps toward healthier, longer lives,” Dr Urison concludes. “Preventative healthcare must become a priority, not an afterthought.”

For media enquiries or interview requests:
Cebisile Mkhize
Tel: +27 73 334 4884
Email: Cebisile@orangeink.co.za