Fletcher volunteered to visit his local GP for a check-up to help spread the Men’s Health Week (14-20 June) message that all men - especially older men - should see their GP at least once a year.
Coronary heart disease accounts for almost one in five male deaths and is the leading cause of death in men, while lung cancer and strokes are the two next most common causes.
Other major health risks include depression, type 2 diabetes and prostate cancer - now the most diagnosed cancer in Australia.
Fletcher said there is a tendency for men to disregard health problems.
“Footy coaches know a thing or two about men’s health and fitness, and as you get a little bit older it becomes even more important to get regular check-ups,” Fletcher said.
“Men sometimes feel too time-pressured to see a GP, but it only takes about half an hour to have a check-up and it could save your life. We really shouldn’t take our health for granted,” he said.
North-side GP, Dr Anita Green, said Men’s Health Week was also about encouraging men to make the right choices to improve their lifestyle, wellbeing and all areas of their physical, mental, emotional and sexual health.
“Regular health monitoring and sharing information with their GP about their family’s medical history gives men their best chance at catching any health issues early and surviving a potentially life threatening illness,” Dr Green said.
“Sometimes the diseases that threaten men don’t have obvious symptoms in their early stages, or if men are experiencing symptoms, it may not be apparent to them that the symptoms could be related to a more serious health issue.
“For example, a new study released earlier this month found lower leg pain and cramping in older men caused by inadequate blood flow to the muscles was not being adequately managed. This condition, known as claudication, was associated with twice the risk of cardiovascular death.
“Booking an annual appointment with a GP will allow men to be checked for all age appropriate health risks and provide them with an opportunity to have any health questions answered to ensure they remain fit and well for many years to come,” she said.
