In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to brush off annual checkups—especially for younger men who feel perfectly healthy. But ignoring preventive healthcare can have serious consequences. Despite medical advancements and growing awareness, men under 40 continue to be the least likely demographic to schedule regular doctor visits.
Dr. Rohin Saroya, a primary care physician at Bayhealth Primary Care, Smyrna, is on a mission to change that. As a physician in the same age group, he understands the mindset—and the risks—young men face when they avoid medical care. His message is clear: seeing a primary care doctor yearly can save your life.
The Prevention Gap: Why Young Men Avoid the Doctor
Many young men have a sense of invincibility. They feel strong, healthy, and symptom-free—so why bother seeing a doctor?
Common Reasons Young Men Skip Doctor Visits:
- Belief that they’re too young for serious health issues
- Embarrassment or discomfort discussing personal concerns
- Fear of receiving bad news
- Lack of time or difficulty scheduling appointments
- Preference for urgent care over establishing a primary care relationship
While urgent care centers offer convenience, they’re no substitute for a primary care doctor who understands your medical history, lifestyle, and long-term health goals.
Preventive Care: Catch Issues Before They Become Critical
Annual checkups with a primary care physician are about more than treating colds and flu. They offer a vital opportunity to catch risk factors and detect silent health threats early.
What Primary Care Doctors Check For:
- High blood pressure
- Cholesterol levels
- Diabetes
- Tobacco and alcohol use
- Drug use and abuse
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Depression and anxiety
- Family history of chronic conditions
Early detection can lead to simple lifestyle changes or non-invasive treatments—long before a problem becomes life-threatening.
Mental Health Matters More Than Ever
Another reason young men need regular checkups? Mental health.
Annual exams include screenings for depression, anxiety, and other emotional health conditions. Discussing mental well-being with a trusted physician can be a lifesaving first step toward healing.
Lifestyle First: Not Every Issue Needs Medication
Younger men often assume a doctor’s visit will result in prescriptions—but that’s not always the case.
Dr. Saroya’s Focus: Lifestyle Intervention
- Better nutrition
- Increased physical activity
- Reducing sodium intake
- Managing weight
- Avoiding smoking and excessive drinking
Even losing a few pounds, improving your diet, or taking steps to manage stress can make a huge difference in long-term health. And a primary care physician helps track that progress over time.
The Power of a Doctor Who Knows You
Building a relationship with a primary care doctor allows for better, more personalized healthcare. Your doctor becomes a partner in your wellness journey, someone who understands your goals, holds you accountable, and can advocate for the best next steps when something’s off.
Find the Right Doctor Near You
Bayhealth understands how important it is for young men to get the right care, at the right time, and in the right place. That’s why they offer an easy-to-use Find a Doctor service.
Whether you’re new to the area, just getting started with adult care, or haven’t seen a doctor in years—Bayhealth can help you connect with a trusted provider near your home or work.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. At what age should men start seeing a doctor regularly?
Men should start annual checkups in their 20s, even if they feel healthy. Early screenings help detect hidden risks and create a baseline for future health.
2. What can I expect at a men’s annual physical exam?
You’ll have your vitals checked, a conversation about lifestyle, and be screened for blood pressure, cholesterol, STI risks, and mental health concerns.
3. I feel fine—why should I still go?
Many serious conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes show no symptoms early on. Preventive visits can catch problems before they become severe.
4. Do primary care doctors treat mental health issues?
Yes. They often screen for depression, anxiety, and stress, and can either treat these directly or refer patients to a specialist if needed.
5. How do I find a doctor that fits my lifestyle and needs?
Use Bayhealth’s Find a Doctor tool to locate primary care physicians in your area, read bios, and select someone you feel comfortable with.
