Health 18 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Men's reluctance to seek healthcare contributes to high mortality rates
Medical professionals in Uganda are pointing to men's delayed health-seeking behavior as a major factor behind higher mortality rates in the male population. Many men only visit health facilities when their conditions are critical. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/men-s-poor-health-seeking-behaviour-blamed-for-high-deaths-5600300
Healthcare workers across Uganda are raising concerns about the alarming rate of deaths among men, attributing it significantly to their reluctance to seek timely medical attention. Data from facilities like Lira Regional Referral Hospital indicates that a substantial number of male patients are admitted in severe or critical conditions, often too late for effective intervention.
Senior nursing officer at Lira Regional Referral Hospital, Sr Hellen Ongom, highlighted that men frequently attempt to manage their illnesses at home, only presenting at the hospital when their health has severely deteriorated. This delay is sometimes linked to lifestyle factors such as excessive alcohol consumption and prioritizing work over personal well-being.
Dr. David Okino, Kwania District Health Officer, echoed these sentiments, noting that delayed healthcare seeking leads to complications, treatment failures, and sometimes death. He also pointed to reckless lifestyles and a societal mindset that portrays men as inherently strong, discouraging them from admitting vulnerability.
In Apac District, the situation is similarly concerning, with women and children making up the vast majority of inpatient admissions. Local residents offered further insights, with some men citing the demanding nature of providing for their families as a reason for delaying visits to health centers. Others expressed fear of receiving diagnoses for serious conditions like HIV/Aids or cancer, believing the stress of such news would hasten their demise.
There’s a pressing need to encourage men to adopt proactive health-seeking behaviors, including regular check-ups and screenings for early detection and management of diseases. This cultural shift is crucial for improving health outcomes and reducing preventable deaths. For more details, visit the Daily Monitor.