Why men’s health protection matters more than ever

Key Takeaways

• Many men still feel they “must be strong”, leading them to delay care and overlook early men’s health symptoms.
• A single health crisis can heavily impact family savings and long-term financial plans.
• Early awareness, regular check-ups, and health protection are essential for men and their families.
• Takaful reflects a man's responsibility, preparedness, and love for his family.

Men are often seen as pillars of strength, the ones who stay steady, persevere through long days, and provide for their families. From a young age, many men are raised with the belief that ‘men must be strong’, should not show weakness, and must always be able to endure.

Behind this expectation, however, lies a quieter reality: symptoms are ignored, check-ups are postponed, and health often comes last on a very long list of responsibilities. In today’s fast-paced world, protecting men’s health is not just about medical treatment. It is about mindset, commitment, and the willingness to prepare for what we cannot see yet.

The Hidden Truth About Men’s Health

Research from various countries consistently shows that men are less likely than women to seek medical help early, even when they have similar health conditions. Many underreport symptoms, avoid routine check-ups, and delay visits to the doctor until an illness becomes serious.

Common reasons include:

• Workplace pressure and long hours.
• The belief that they should “tough it out” or “wait and see”
• Worry about being seen as weak if they talk about pain, fatigue, or emotional stress.
• The internalised idea that “real men don’t complain”.

This reluctance has consequences. Studies have found that men face higher health's risk, higher mortality rates and shorter life expectancies than women for many primary conditions, including heart disease and certain cancers.

Early awareness and regular screening can:

• Detect silent conditions such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol.
• Improve chances of successful treatment.
• Reduce long-term medical costs and complications.

True strength is not staying silent in the face of pain. It is having the courage to protect your health before it is too late for yourself and for the people who rely on you.

The Financial Reality of Health Risks

When we talk about health’s risk, it is not only about the body. Every serious illness has a financial impact. The cost of managing chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, or kidney problems continues to rise in Malaysia and worldwide.

For many families, one major health event can:

• Drain years of savings.
• Disrupt children’s education plans or retirement goals.
• Create emotional stress at the very time calm decision-making is needed most.

Without proper planning and health protection, families may be forced to choose treatment options based on cost rather than what is medically ideal. That is a situation no one wants to face.

This is where the importance of health protection becomes very clear. The right coverage helps to:

• Ease the financial shock of hospitalisation and treatment.
• Ensure access to better care and timely procedures.
• Protect your family’s daily living and long-term plans.

Health protection is not a luxury for men; it is a financial safeguard and a reflection of their responsibility.

Redefining Strength Through Takaful Protection

For many men, strength has long been associated with staying silent, “powering through”, and carrying the burden alone. However, in reality, strength today takes on a different form. It is thoughtful, prepared, and deeply aware of how one decision can affect the entire family.

Takaful protection reflects this more complete definition of strength:

• It is not just financial coverage; it represents care, foresight, and shared responsibility.
• Men who take steps to secure health protection are not being pessimistic, they are being proactive.
• They set a powerful example for their children and loved ones, showing them the importance of planning ahead.

Great Eastern Takaful Berhad (GETB) offers health protection plans designed to:

• Help cover unexpected medical bills.
• Provide access to treatment without compromising life goals.
• Offer peace of mind, knowing that your family is not left to carry the burden alone.

Absolute protection is not just about being physically strong for others. It is ensuring that, no matter what happens, your loved ones remain supported, stable, and secure.

Conclusion

The idea that “men must be strong” does not mean staying silent or ignoring pain. Real strength lies in preparation, in taking steps today that protect your tomorrow.

In a world where health risks can appear without warning, choosing to prioritise your well-being is one of the most powerful decisions you can make. It sends a clear message: your life, and your family’s future, matter.

Take that step now. Discover Great Eastern Takaful’s health protection plans designed to support men at every stage of life, so you can continue to be a pillar of strength with confidence, clarity, and peace of mind.

Reference:
1. https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/3/8/e003320
2. https://www.weforum.org/stories/2020/06/men-healthcare-cancer-heart-disease/
3. https://www.moh.gov.my/moh/resources/Penerbitan/Penerbitan%20Utama/HEALTH%20FACTS/Health_Facts_2024.pdf