Got Balls? Take Charge Men’s Health Matters.

Introduction:

This week let’s discuss something hidden in plain view for too long. It’s about time we shed some light on an issue that has had men uncomfortable in their chairs for many years. I am referring to men’s healthcare. I’m referring to prostate cancer and vasectomies. It’s high time we break the silence on these issues and take them head-on. Mirto Murray, my dear friend, and colleague from Curacao, inspired today’s columns. He recently embarked upon a journey to raise awareness of the importance of regular medical checks and prevention for prostate cancer. Let’s get started, shall we?

The Elephant in the Room

We need to talk about the elephant or, better yet, the finger in the room. It’s the infamous Digital Rectal Exam (“DRE”). The “digital” part has nothing to do with computers or fancy diagnostic equipment. Digit, in this context, refers to a ”finger”. There, I said it! No one can deny that men are uncomfortable at the thought of undergoing this exam and may try to avoid it.  Some guys can get together and grab a round of golf or mountain biking, but we don’t get the gang together to go to the urologist to check our prostates. I’ll ask you: Would you prefer to endure a few awkward seconds or risk your own life? A DRE could save your life, men. Peace of mind is worth the small price. Let’s stop hesitating, take a breath, and man up. Remember that a few moments of possible discomfort during the DRE could lead to better health for a lifetime.

Many men shiver at the thought of having a doctor – especially a male doctor – putting on a glove, rubbing it with some lube, and sticking his finger where the infamous sun doesn’t shine. Let me assure you, gentlemen, that the reality is much less frightening. This is quick, painless, and could save your life. During this exam, your healthcare provider carefully inserts their gloved finger (digit) into your rectum, allowing them to feel the edges and surface of your prostate gland to detect any potential abnormalities. Trust your urologist it is his job. This  is what he has been trained for and his fingers could well save your life. My urologist last told me that men need to start taking annual prostate exams as soon as they hit 40 years of age. So gentlemen, if you are 40 or over, get over it, drop your pants and get your prostate exam done and do it every year.

Vasectomy: The Mighty Vasectomy

Let’s move on to another uncomfortable subject – vasectomy. Men can break out in cold sweats just by hearing the word and covering their precious parts. There ios no need to. A vasectomy is a simple and safe procedure done on an outpatient basis. The doctors will give you something to sleep, and before you know it, “snip snip,”  and you wake up in the recovery room and get ready to go about your day. 

The “snip snip” is done laparoscopically, and the doctor will make minor incisions in your scrotum, pull out, cut, or seal the tubes that carry sperm, put everything back inside, and seal the incisions.  After the recovery, you leave the clinic and go on your day. The “affected area” could be sensitive for a few days, but all a small sacrifice to live without worrying about contraception. A vasectomy is a way to relieve stress and anxiety about unwanted pregnancy. It can also be an alternative for couples who want the woman to stop using contraceptive pills over an extended period, so if you love and care for her, “snip snip,” and you relieve her from having to take those pills any longer. Now if she gets pregnant after that, my friend, you have a different problem.

Mirto’s Battle and Triumph

I would like to take this opportunity to applaud Mirto Murrya, for his courage and resilience. He is a sharp lawyer and a prolific writer. I enjoy reading his articles and his court pleadings. He has a way with words and writes about legal and other social issues. 

Mirto was diagnosed and treated for prostate cancer earlier this year. Rather than locking himself up in silence and self-pity, he wrote an article about his journey with prostate cancer and published it in the local media and on his blog. That is how I found out he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer. His article stressed the importance of regular checks and early prostate (carcinoma) detection. He also shared how he learned about The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride. This global charity event brings together thousands of dapperly dressed riders on classic and vintage motorcycles. The event aims to raise awareness and funds for men’s health issues, particularly prostate cancer and mental health. Mirto’s words and call for action resonated with me and, I am sure, with many men. Mirto’s courageous act opened up long-overdue conversations about men’s health. His article reminds us that we have to put our health first. His story reminds us that we aren’t alone in our battle. Together, we can build a community of men willing to share their health concerns and seek medical care openly. Mirto’s story is a powerful example of early detection is key to overcoming prostate cancer. This is a powerful reminder to take charge of your health despite discomfort or fears. Let’s follow Mirto and schedule those checkups to be proactive about our health.

Breast cancer in men!

While breast cancer is commonly associated with women, men must remember or realize that men can join the “exclusive” club. Yes, boys, you, too, can get breast cancer. Although it’s rarer for guys to get breast cancer, it’s no laughing matter. Look for any unexpected lumps or bumps in the chest area, changes in the nipples, or perhaps suspicious swelling under the arm. I read somewhere that one (1) in everyone (1000) thousand can develop breast cancer. Based on our population, this means 100 men in Aruba are prone to get breast cancer. So don’t roll the dice, pay attention to any unusual changes. Look for a lump in the breast, nipple discharge, a change in the size or shape of the breast, dimpling of the skin, redness or swelling of the breast, or rash on the breast. The next time you see your doctor, don’t hesitate to get those pecs checked out by a healthcare professional. Early detection is key, and real men take charge of their health. 

Please, tell your partners and loved ones

You play an important role in supporting men, whether you are a woman, a partner, or a cherished family member. You can encourage men to discuss their health openly and empower them to prioritize their well-being. Highlight the importance of regular checks and early detection. Together you will make an informed decision about family planning and discuss the advantages of regular prostate exams, a vasectomy, and breast cancer exams. 

Enjoying Health and a Brighter Future

Schedule regular checkups and face the Digital Rectal Exam head-on. We can also consider the vasectomy options. We can change the narrative about men’s health together. Turn discomfort into courage. Transform silence into dialogue. Transform ignorance into awareness. It’s high time for us men to take charge of our r well-being. Let’s go on this journey with you, my friends. Health is our compass, and resilience is our driving force. Let’s break the stigma and embrace humor to create a world where men’s health is important. We owe it to ourselves, our families, and future generations.

Disclaimer: I know a bit about law and write a little. I am not qualified to give medical advice. Consult your doctor to discuss the need for prostate exams and if a vasectomy is right for you.