Figures show men are far more likely to ignore health issues than women

Whether it's an unexplained ache or pain, an unusual lump or bump, or worries about sexual health, with today's busy lives too many of shrug off symptoms and simply decide to get on with our day.

And it's men who are much more likely than women to ignore health concerns, failing to get expert advice even when they think something might be wrong.

In fact, a 2012 survey found that men are much less likely than women to take advantage of primary care services, including community pharmacies.

And it seems that this is one reason why men experience worse long-term health prospects than women. According to the Movember Foundation, which raises funds and campaigns on men's health issues, men die on average six years earlier than women.

But with expert guidance available from your local community pharmacist, at Boots, it is quick and convenient for men to get help and advice on the high street. You don't need an appointment, you can simply pop into your local Boots pharmacy store, where you'll find a pharmacist and their team happy to answer your questions.

Most local pharmacies also have private consultation rooms, so you can even discuss any concerns or symptoms away from other customers. Some Boots pharmacies offer private services in store for some common problems that can affect men including hair loss and sexual health. The pharmacist can also give advice on ways to help stop smoking and live a healthy lifestyle. So there's no need to sweep symptoms under the carpet or sit at home worrying unnecessarily.

By simply popping into their local Boots pharmacy in their lunch hour, men can now talk about any health concerns that may have and discuss any symptoms with minimum fuss and embarrassment - in some cases, it could even help save lives.

Eyes

An eye test is about more than simply checking whether you can read the newspaper or the number on the front of the bus.

Having your vision checked by a Boots optician can also help identify a range of health problems.

For instance, eyes can give an early indication of high-blood pressure and high cholesterol. Other conditions affecting your general health, such as diabetes, can also be spotted as part of a routine eye test.

Adults should have an eye test at least every two years. See boots.com/opticians for details.

Sexual Issues

With Boots' private consultation rooms, men can seek advice in a discreet and confidential space.

Boots provide an Erectile Dysfunction Service which provides access to a prescription-only medicine. The service is available in selected stores for men aged between 30 and 65 years living with erectile dysfunction. A pharmacist will carry out the consultation to determine if the service is suitable**

Visit boots.com/erectile-dysfunction-service for more information.

Wellbeing

According to a 2012 survey*, men are more likely than women to have alcohol disorders and be obese - both are significant risk factors for a range of illnesses.

Boots Pharmacists are able to help men live a healthy lifestyle by providing advice and information, as well as discussing products with you.

For those who want to stop smoking, a range of products and services are available including local NHS Stop Smoking Services in selected stores.

If you need help or want advice on vitamins and supplements you can always ask a member of the pharmacy team who are happy to help.

Heart Health

Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) is one of the UK's leading killers, accounting for the deaths of nearly one in six men, compared to one in 10 women, according to the British Heart Foundation.

And many men don't know that some seemingly less serious problems, such as erectile dysfunction, can be an early warning sign of heart problems.

You can speak to a member of the pharmacy team who can help advise on lifestyle changes including tips on eating healthy and stopping smoking.

Type 2 Diabetes

Over 3 million people in England are estimated to have diabetes and around 90% of diabetes cases are Type 2. Diabetes is more common in men than women.

Risk factors for Type 2 diabetes include weight, age, ethnicity and family history. The condition occurs when the body doesn't produce enough insulin. This can lead to serious long-term health problems.

Boots offers a free online tool developed by Diabetes UK to help assess your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

So if you're at all concerned about your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, why not take the test? In just a few minutes you can learn if you're at risk and take active, positive steps to help minimise the risk. See boots.com/diabetesrisk for details.

Visit the Boots official site for more information on health care services.

** Subject to pharmacist and stock availability. Eligibility criteria apply. Charges apply.

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