Men’s Health: What Expats Need To Know

The gap between men’s and women’s health continues to grow. In 2026, the average global life expectancy for men was 71.2 years; for women, it’s 76.4 years. This difference is just one indicator of the poorer health outcomes experienced by men in almost every country worldwide.

There are many reasons why this might be the case. We know, for instance, that men are significantly less likely than women to seek medical support for mental and physical health ailments. In one study in the United States, 65% of men said they would avoid seeking medical attention for as long as possible, with many choosing to wait for symptoms to improve on their own.

What’s more, this trend appears to be consistent in most countries around the world. In the Baltic countries – particularly Latvia, Lithuania and Poland – the disparity is particularly acute. Only in countries with strongly patriarchal cultures and where men are held in higher esteem by society, such as India and Thailand, is the trend found in reverse.

In this article, we’ll dive into some of the ways men may struggle to access healthcare, and what can be done about it. We’ll also explore some of the unique health issues men face and what you need to know in order to protect your health and well-being.

Why are men less likely to visit the doctor?

It is a widely-known, worldwide phenomenon that men are significantly less likely than women to visit a doctor or medical professional when they start to notice symptoms. Researchers have found that men go to their doctor around 33% less on average.

Men should be aware of this discrepancy, because it is a key reason male health outcomes are worse overall. They should also understand the common reasons that often prevent men from seeking healthcare, which include:

Men are less open with their peers

Men are less likely to engage in conversations about health with other men. A 2016 study found more than half of men (53%) do not regularly talk about their health. This lack of openness is cited as a reason men are less likely to notice symptoms and feel convinced to visit a medical professional.

Men must be mindful of this discrepancy and attempt to be more open about their health with their male peers. This is especially important when it comes to mental health, where a number of charities around the world are actively encouraging men to talk more – at the moment, as many as 40% of men say they ‘never’ talk about their mental health.

48% of men would prefer to ‘tough it out’ when they start to notice symptoms, rather than seek medical advice

Men fear being perceived as weak by visiting a doctor

Men will often put off speaking to a doctor or other medical professionals because they don’t want to ‘bother’ them, or because they don’t want to be perceived as weak. A recent study found that 48% of men would instead prefer to ‘tough it out’ when they start to notice symptoms, with a third saying they believed talking about health problems was a sign of weakness.

The pressure for men to appear brave, strong or macho often undermines their access to healthcare and leads to poorer outcomes.

Men are less likely to educate themselves about health

There is an enormous, worldwide ‘health literacy’ gap between men and women. Men are less likely to understand the implications of health concerns, the symptoms to look out for, the mechanisms by which prescription medications work, and preventative healthcare strategies to help them avoid the onset of disease.

This means men are more likely to be overweight, to engage in behaviours such as drinking alcohol and smoking, or to neglect taking medication designed to prevent diseases. It’s important for men to be proactive about educating themselves in order to better care for their own health.

Men receive fewer messages about healthcare

Men are often exposed to fewer health awareness campaigns and public health messages than women, whether through healthcare providers, government initiatives or the media. This can contribute to lower health literacy among men and make them less likely to seek medical advice proactively.

This may also mean men are less likely to take advantage of preventive healthcare services available to them, such as health checks, screenings or well-being programmes offered through their employer, health insurer or local healthcare system.

The lack of messaging to men can create a cycle that’s difficult to break: men are less likely to consult their doctor, which means they are less likely to receive follow-on communications, which means they are less likely to visit their doctor again. Men should be proactive about visiting their healthcare providers, but national governments and the media should also be aware that the number of communications going out to men is usually far less than those meant for women.

Medical environments are uninviting to men

A final reason men are less likely to seek healthcare is because many perceive healthcare environments as uninviting to men.

A high proportion of female staff, communications focused on women’s health and even women’s magazines on the tables of waiting rooms can create the illusion that men are unwelcome in medical settings. Healthcare providers should be mindful of this when designing their environments and try to make their settings more inviting to male patients.

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Which health conditions disproportionately affect men?

Men are much more likely to experience certain conditions in their lives. This is sometimes linked to genetic factors, but may also be the result of men being less likely to consult medical professionals, practice preventative healthcare or even a result of their environments.

For example, men are significantly more likely to work in high-risk jobs, which expose them to both short-term and long-term health complications. Men represent up to 97% of all workplace fatalities, plus 75% of all deaths linked to past exposures.

Health conditions that disproportionately affect men

1/ Cancer

There are, of course, certain types of cancer that only affect men, including penile, prostate and testicular cancer. But men are also more likely to both contract and die from most other forms of non-gendered cancers.

50% of men will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their life, compared to around 33% of women; although that gap has been closing in recent years. Some of the cancers that inversely affect men include colorectal cancer (1.5x more likely), skin cancer (twice as likely) and pancreatic cancer (slightly more likely, largely linked to higher rates of smoking among men).

There is a genetic reason for this – men’s Y chromosomes are more likely to cause mutations that lead to cancers, and have fewer defensive tumour suppression genes. But it’s also known that men are more likely to engage in lifestyle behaviours that lead to cancer: for instance, around 33% of men smoke, compared to just 8% of women.

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2/ Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s is a degenerative brain condition that affects over 10 million people globally each year and renders many patients disabled. There is currently no known cure. Men are around twice as likely to contract Parkinson’s during their life than women, suggesting the pathology of the disease may affect the sexes differently.

Men should be particularly vigilant about Parkinson’s disease, especially if they have a family history of the illness, and beware of early symptoms which include tremors in the hands, trouble sleeping, constipation, uncoordinated movement and a hunched posture.

3/ Aortic aneurysm

An aortic aneurysm is a bulge in the wall of the main artery from the heart. If these bulges burst, they can cause life-threatening internal bleeding or stop the flow of blood from the heart to the organs.

Men are up to six times more likely to develop an aneurysm than women, and the odds of one appearing increase with age. Around 1% of men between 55–64 years old develop an aneurysm, but the odds increase around 4% each decade thereafter.

Aortic aneurysms can be treated with medication and surgery, which is why it is important for men to seek regular consultations for their cardiac health as they get older.

4/ Motor neurone disease

Motor neurone disease (MND) (also called amyotrophic lateral sclerosis [ALS] or Lou Gehrig’s disease) is a rare neurodegenerative illness affecting the motor neurones responsible for voluntary muscle contraction. It causes the total loss of movement in parts of, or all of the body, as well as issues affecting speech, breathing and eating.

While some cases of MND have a genetic link, the majority of cases develop for no known reason. What is known, however, is that men are around 1.5x more likely to develop MND than women. Very little is currently understood about motor neurone disease, including why there is such a discrepancy between males and females.

4/ Kidney stones

Kidney stones occur when urine becomes concentrated, causing crystal-forming substances like calcium, oxalate, and uric acid to clump together.

Kidney stones are often caused by dietary factors, such as excessive protein and salt consumption, and dehydration, but there are also many genetic factors at play that inversely affect males. As a result, men are known to be around twice as likely to develop kidney stones than women.

5/ Mental health disorders

While men and women generally experience mental health disorders at a similar rate, men are significantly more likely to develop certain types of mental health problems. These include: substance use disorder, which affects twice as many men as women; ADHD, where men are twice as likely to be diagnosed; and autism – men are at least three times as likely to be diagnosed, although it is now believed this is because symptoms of autism in females manifest differently and many diagnoses have previously been missed.

Contrary to popular belief, men are actually less likely to be diagnosed with depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety than women. However, it is believed that this is because men are less likely to seek a diagnosis in the first place. This could help to explain why the global suicide rate is significantly higher for men than it is for women: men are more than 3 times more likely to die by suicide.

The male suicide epidemic

As mentioned, men are more likely to die by suicide than women. This is true of almost every country in the world, with Palau the only known exception. In Georgia, where the ratio is highest, nine times more men than women die by suicide.

But why is this the case? Researchers believe it is because men are more likely to use violent methods of suicide, which are more likely to be effective. Accounting only for attempted suicides, the ratio between males and females may actually be much closer.

Male suicide is considered is considered an ‘epidemic’ in some parts of the world, including the United Kingdom, where a number of specialist charities support men who are struggling with suicidal thoughts.

If you are seeking support for this reason, the following organisations may be able to help:

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What can we do to close the gap?

When we talk about the ‘health gap’, we’ve historically referred to the imbalance women face in medicine. Until recently, men were treated as the ‘typical’ patient in terms of research, which meant women’s health went under-researched for years. Much work has been done over the last few decades to fix this historical imbalance, and women’s health outcomes are now improving worldwide.

However, the pendulum has now swung the other way, and it is men who are now facing poorer health outcomes in many avenues. It’s now important to try to close this gap and improve access to care for men around the world. But how can we do this?

Encourage men to be more proactive about their health

In order to ensure the best possible health outcomes, it’s important to fix some of the discrepancies between males and females in several key areas.

One key area is lifestyle choices. We’ve seen how men are generally more likely to smoke and drink alcohol, and to be employed in higher-risk jobs. Steps are already being taken around the world to try to encourage men to live healthier, safer lives.

For instance, the World Health Organization’s No Tobacco Unit (NTU) is working to discourage smoking around the world. Rates of smoking among men have fallen 41% worldwide since 2010 as a result of this and similar initiatives.

It’s also important to encourage men to consult medical professionals more often. Many men have said in the past that they don’t want to speak to their doctor because they worry about wasting their time, or because they are scared to discuss sensitive issues. This leads to a culture in which many men ‘tough it out’ instead of seeking medical support – which would ultimately lead to improved health outcomes.

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Break down stigmas

This leads neatly into our second point: it’s important for healthcare providers to attempt to break down stigmas and encourage more men to visit to discuss symptoms, seek support, or simply visit for routine check-ups.

Men can play their part in this too, by being more open with their male peers about health issues that affect them. Ultimately, it’s about creating a culture in which men understand that they can visit a medical professional without fear of judgement.

Male loneliness: a worldwide crisis

There is an increasing number of men worldwide who report having ‘no close friends’.

In 2021, 15% of men in the US said they had no close friends compared to just 3% in 1990. Male loneliness can be particularly exacerbated by fatherhood, work priorities and the rising trend of socialising online.

Whether you are a man yourself or a woman with men in your life, it’s important to be aware of these statistics. Many men do not reach out for support simply because they have no one to reach out to – but we can all be proactive when it comes to supporting these men.

Improve health literacy

Another important factor is about educating men about health concerns they should know about. Healthcare providers and governments should be more proactive when it comes to communicating symptoms men should be aware of, when to visit their doctor, and how to seek the best outcomes for their circumstances.

Men can play their individual part too, by reading up on common issues that may affect them in their life and understanding when they should visit a medical professional for support or treatment.

What advances are already being made?

Thankfully, many advances are making it easier than ever for men to access the healthcare services they need.

For instance, virtual healthcare services like My Global Doctor from Teladoc Health provide 24/7 on-demand access to healthcare from anywhere in the world through a phone or other device. It’s a confidential, one-to-one service that allows users to speak to a medical professional and receive follow-on advice or prescription medication.

Another field making a positive impact is wearable devices. Previously in the domain of fitness tracking, wearable devices have evolved now to be able to detect heart anomalies, metabolic health and stress levels. Wearable devices can help men to identify the first signs of health deterioration and take action early.

Finally, it’s important to note that funding into male healthcare is increasing in some countries, as researchers attempt to tackle the health issues directly affecting men.

For instance, in 2025, the British government launched their first ever Men’s Health Strategy, designed to tackle the inequalities in both mental and physical health faced by men. Some of the headline plans of this strategy include a £3.6 million investment designed to confront the higher risk of suicide in men, improved care for prostate cancer, and initiatives designed to help men in Britain live healthier lifestyles.

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What should you know about men’s health as an expat?

Understanding the challenges around male health is particularly important for expats. This is because male expats face a unique double jeopardy: as well as experiencing poorer health outcomes for men, they may also experience poorer health outcomes as foreign nationals. This means male expats could be exposed to greater health risks than their female counterparts.

As a male expat, it’s vital to understand this risk and to stay on top of your health while living abroad. This may mean:

1/ Eating a balanced diet

When living abroad, it can be easy to put on weight if you’re not familiar with the local cuisine. Therefore, it’s important to be mindful about what you’re eating. Choose heart-healthy foods like leafy salads, fresh fruits and unsalted nuts, and cut down on carbohydrates and fatty meats – fish and skinless chicken are always a safe bet. If you’re struggling to eat healthy, look for world cuisines that are known for being healthier.

2/ Get plenty of exercise

It can be hard to fit exercise into your busy schedule when living abroad, but it’s important to aim for at least 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity each day. Even walking is a great way to support your heart health, improve fitness and help maintain a healthy weight. Mix cardiovascular exercise like running and cycling with strength training to help maintain muscle mass and support your overall health. If you struggle to stay motivated, fitness apps, activity trackers or personal challenges can help you stay consistent and keep your fitness goals on track.

3/ Don’t go it alone

It can feel impossible to live a healthy life in isolation. As an expat, it’s important to get out-and-about and make friends. Whether that means joining sports clubs, hobby societies or simply hanging out with colleagues, make sure you have a close circle of trusted people around you. Not only will this help you to beat loneliness (a common concern among expats), it will also give you a network of trusted people who you can speak to about health concerns.

4/ Track your well-being

It’s not just your physical health to keep an eye on. It’s also important to be mindful of your mental well-being. Many expats benefit from speaking to a therapist or counsellor, while others prefer to practice in their own time. Platforms like TELUS Health Engage help you to track your overall well-being and guide you towards targets that can help you to stay balanced and beat stress.

5/ Rely on your health insurance

As an expat, you may be entitled to your country’s local healthcare services – but waiting times, availability and the services provided can vary depending on where you live. International health insurance can help you access eligible medical treatment and support wherever your cover applies. Take time to understand exactly what your policy includes, as it may provide access to services such as health screenings, routine check-ups and additional well-being benefits.

Support your health with William Russell

Every person’s healthcare needs are different, which is why William Russell offers a range of international health insurance plans with different levels of cover and optional benefits. You can choose a policy that suits your needs, whether you’re looking for support with preventative healthcare, cancer treatment, mental health or enhanced dental cover. As cover varies by plan, it’s important to check what’s included before you buy.

Every William Russell policy also includes access to Elevate, our complimentary package of digital services designed to support your health, mind, well-being and safety. From speaking to a doctor remotely and accessing mental well-being support to helping you build healthier habits, Elevate provides practical tools to help you stay proactive about your health while living abroad.

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Frequently asked questions on men’s health for expats

How often should men have a health check?

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. How often you should have a health check depends on factors such as your age, family history, existing medical conditions and lifestyle. Some countries also have different recommendations for routine screenings and preventative care.

If you’re living abroad, it’s worth familiarising yourself with the healthcare guidelines in your new country and speaking to a healthcare professional about which health checks may be appropriate for you.

How can living abroad affect men’s health?

Moving abroad can bring exciting opportunities, but it can also affect your physical and mental well-being. Adjusting to a new culture, healthcare system, language or work environment can create additional stress, while being away from family and friends may contribute to feelings of loneliness or isolation.

Changes to your daily routine, diet and exercise habits can also impact your overall health. Taking time to establish healthy routines and knowing how to access healthcare in your new country can help you look after your well-being.

Are health screenings important for men?

Health screenings can help identify certain health conditions before symptoms appear, making it easier to begin treatment or make lifestyle changes where appropriate. Depending on your age, medical history and where you live, healthcare professionals may recommend screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes or certain types of cancer.

Screening recommendations vary between countries, so it’s important to follow local guidance and speak to a healthcare professional if you’re unsure which screenings are relevant to you.

Does international health insurance cover preventative healthcare?

Preventative healthcare benefits vary between insurers and policies. Some international health insurance plans may include cover for services such as routine health checks, vaccinations or health screenings, while others focus on treatment once you’re unwell.

Before taking out a policy, check what preventive care is included and whether any limits, waiting periods or eligibility criteria apply.

Learn more about our well-being benefits

How do I find a doctor when living abroad?

Finding a trusted doctor in a new country can feel daunting, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the local healthcare system. Depending on where you live, you may be able to register with a local doctor, use recommendations from your embassy or employer, or access healthcare through your international health insurance provider.

Learn more in our guide to seeing a doctor abroad

The information in this article is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for professional medical care.

As healthcare systems, screening recommendations and available services can vary between countries, the information may not apply to your individual circumstances. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, or need advice tailored to your situation, consult a qualified healthcare professional.

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Don’t leave your health to chance

When it comes to getting the healthcare you need, it’s more important than ever to be proactive. With international health insurance from William Russell, you’ll have support when you need it, including access to our global network of healthcare providers and services, helping you find appropriate care.

With flexible policies designed around your needs, you can enjoy total peace of mind knowing that you have access to eligible medical care around the world. Plus, all of our policies include Elevate, giving you access to digital tools and services that support your health, mind, well-being and safety—wherever life takes you. Speak to our friendly, award-winning team today to see if our policies could be right for you.

Terms & conditions apply to our insurance products and services. You can find full details of what our plans cover (and what they don’t cover) in our plan agreements.

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In this article

48% of men would prefer to ‘tough it out’ when they start to notice symptoms, rather than seek medical advice

There is a very broad definition of health

What is health? And how does insurance protect it?

Getting a cancer diagnosis is a scary experience

Find out what to expect from diagnosis to treatment