Male Factor is The Reason For Shortened Lifespan in Males.

In an average African family, it is on record that, to be a male is a major predisposition to a early death. For several reasons. An African man is saddled with a lot of responsibility. A family man is even tasked with a greater degree of responsibility. He has to provide for his nuclear family. He is perceived as a bigger failure if he cannot support his extended family. So you see, he is conditioned to work, despite the harsh economic reality, for his family. This alone, it is believed, can put a strain on the health of a man.

But this is not what is disturbing. What is more troubling is the 'Male Factor'. This factor, though subtle, happens to be imbibed in the sub consciousness of an African Male. The male factor has been on for ages and it is a factor that seems to have a certain deep rooted grip on every African male.

It was only yesterday, while I made my way to aid a patient get his drug down at the pharmacy, that I heard a man complain about how often he had to bring his wife to the hospital for symptoms as little as headache. He was speaking to his wife. He went on to say he could not recall the last time he visited the hospital to see a doctor. He concluded with a rather ironic line; "men are always stronger than women".

That struck me and I thought to myself, 'this is the typical African man'. He has a poor health seeking behaviour. He would rather wait till the condition immobilises him before he considers it serious enough, to visit the hospital. Ego has always been at the heart of the Male factor.

He says to himself; 'but I m strong', 'disease no dey kill black man'.
'My black skin is stronger'. These and many other baseless comments, are set as justifiable grounds to avoid professional health care.
The male factor does not spare professionals as well. A Professor of mine once said, 'Men are supposed to leave the queue for a lady, even as they all line up to see the doctor.' He added that, 'it does not matter what is happening to the man'.

 This stresses that underlying notion, that hospitals are for women and nor men. It proves in principle that, men can not fall ill, and even if they fall ill, they could cure themselves. We are riddled with Ironies, indeed.

The male factor should be purged from our society, from our system, from every African male. Life is more crucial than anything. For with life, you have got another opportunity to fight for another day.
I believe an increase in the health seeking behaviour of every adult African male, would boost our lifespan, keep the family happy, and the society would be better for it. Do call your Doctor Today.