Why Jersey Men Find It Hard to Seek Help from Their GP

Why Men in Jersey Still Struggle to Seek Help from Their GP

More than ten years ago, government figures revealed a stark health divide: around 120 men a year in Jersey were dying from preventable causes, compared with 70 women.

Today, experts warn that while awareness has grown, the gap has not closed.

Dr Guillaume Besson, who launched the Men’s Clinic at the Lido Medical Centre this year, said too many men still put off visiting their GP until their health problems become severe.

“Men are really underrepresented when it comes to health,” he explained. “Many find it difficult to come and see their doctor.”

Privacy concerns and embarrassment are among the barriers. Research shows 18% of men avoid GP appointments because of confidentiality worries. For others, making a call to discuss issues such as erectile dysfunction feels uncomfortable.

To address this, Dr Besson’s clinic allows patients to submit their concerns online before confirming appointments by phone.“About half of men will experience some form of sexual dysfunction in their lifetime,” he said. “Erectile problems can also be an early warning sign of heart disease. The danger is that untreated issues like high blood pressure and cholesterol remain hidden until a heart attack or stroke.”

Figures from Public Health show men in Jersey live to an average age of 80 but spend almost 18 of those years in poor health.

Professor Peter Bradley, Jersey’s Director of Public Health, said chronic conditions such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes are the main drivers — and many are preventable.“There really is value in getting checked,” he said. “Once you’re in your 40s, it’s important to see your GP, have some basic tests, and start thinking seriously about lifestyle changes.”

The issue has also been raised in the States Assembly. Earlier this year, Health Minister Deputy Tom Binet highlighted inequalities in the system, noting that men are twice as likely to die by suicide as women in Jersey.