No more 'man-flu': online surgeries extended through summer 2011

When it comes to health care, men seldom get it right. Criticised on one hand for not going to the doctor soon enough and on the other for making a lot of fuss about nothing.

man MOT image Now it appears that derogatory remarks such as ‘Man-flu’ could be having a negative impact on men’s health. Research commissioned by Pfizer found that over half of men (52%) felt the term deterred them from seeking medical advice for a legitimate illness.

The OnePoll survey of 3,000 people carried out in September also found that over half of men (53%) worry about wasting their doctor’s time and that only 55% of men visit their GP once or more a year compared with 72% of women.

The drug company released the research to coincide with a relaunch of an idea which could go someway towards easing this problem – online doctor’s surgeries. The Pfizer online surgery, Man MOT (Monday Opportunity To Talk), backed by the MHF, has been extended through summer 2011. Surgeries run every Monday from 6 – 10pm.

The relaunch also includes a viral video from the ‘Ministry of Manly Behaviour’ – a spoof of the old fashioned health promotion films featuring a Harry Enfield-inspired Wilbert.

Innovative approach

MHF CEO Peter Baker said, ‘it’s become acceptable for men to be labelled with ‘Man-flu’ when they’re feeling unwell. However, the reality is not that men complain too much but that too many continue to suffer in silence and avoid their GP, which in some cases can lead to potentially serious medical conditions going undetected. Instead of deterring men from accessing health systems, we should be encouraging men to talk more about any health concerns they may have and motivating them to seek medical support.

‘Since its launch in July 2010, Man MOT has proven to be an innovative and highly successful approach to tackling male health issues. This free and anonymous service offers men the opportunity to access confidential health advice online, with the ultimate goal of driving them back into the healthcare system when necessary.'

Man MOT offers medical advice on a broad range of health issues in total confidence from qualified GPs. Sex and relationship expert Tracey Cox and Relate counsellors also host a series of specialist sexual health and relationship clinics.