Gaby
Researchers at the University of Chicago argue that masculinity can be toxic. Their study revealed that “absolute” men tend to die several years earlier than those whose masculine traits are less pronounced.
Masculinity encompasses a set of characteristics, traits, behaviors, and roles that are considered genuinely male within a given society. However, the early deaths of these so-called “real men” are not due to excessive gym workouts, car racing, or even unhealthy habits. The researchers found that these men shorten their lives by several years because they are too proud to seek medical help for their problems. They fear being perceived as weak.
What Did the Scientists Discover?
During the study, the team observed 4,000 men aged 12 to 42, all of whom had high blood pressure, a known risk factor for heart attacks, strokes, and dementia, as reported by the Daily Mail.
It turned out that participants with more pronounced masculine traits were 11 percent less likely to take prescribed medications for high blood pressure. The team also noted that those who exhibited signs of masculinity from a young age were 7 percent less likely to take prescribed hypertension medications at ages 30 to 40 and 10 percent less likely to take diabetes medications.
According to the scientists, the desire of men to appear self-sufficient and strong prevents them from seeking medical assistance. They observed that even after being diagnosed, these participants often refused treatment.
This is dangerous because masculine men develop serious health issues, particularly cardiovascular problems, which could be prevented if these “heroes” took their health seriously.
The Pressure of Society
Men who display more pronounced masculine traits constantly emphasize their dominance and deny vulnerability, effectively becoming victims of societal stereotypes. They believe that under no circumstances should they cry, complain, or show weakness. They also feel they shouldn’t rush to the doctor for every “little thing.”
“Our hypothesis is that social pressure leads to behavioral differences that affect efforts to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease,” said lead author Dr. Nathaniel Glasser. The desire to conform to the image of the “absolute” man often overrides common sense that would guide these individuals to seek medical care.
Because these masculine men are less likely to seek medical help, diagnoses can go unnoticed for many years until they escalate into something more serious.
Meanwhile, a survey conducted by the Cleveland Clinic in Texas found that 65 percent of men avoid visiting doctors for as long as possible, citing reasons such as being too busy, believing the problem will resolve itself, or not wanting to feel weak.
The conversation around men accepting their vulnerability is becoming increasingly prevalent in society. However, many assert that they feel pressured to remain tough.
