Why a private Well Man Check & full body MOT is key for UK men’s health

Why a private Well Man Health Check can be a game-changer for your long-term wellbeing

The narrative around men’s health often focuses on statistics that paint a concerning picture: shorter life expectancies, higher rates of preventable diseases, and a reluctance to seek medical help. While awareness campaigns and general health advice play an important role, sometimes a more in-depth and proactive approach is needed.

Think of your body like a high-performance vehicle. You wouldn’t rely solely on dashboard warning lights to ensure its optimal function, would you? Regular, comprehensive maintenance is key to keeping it running smoothly for years. This is where the concept of a "full body MOT" for men comes into play, and why going beyond basic health checks with a private Well Man Health Check can be a game-changer for your long-term wellbeing. This blog post will delve into the current landscape of men’s health in the UK, explore the limitations of standard health checks, and highlight the significant advantages of opting for a more comprehensive private assessment, such as our Well Man Health Check-up.

The current state of men’s health in the UK

The statistics surrounding men’s health in the UK are a stark reminder that proactive care is not just beneficial, it’s essential. Men in the UK face a higher risk of developing and dying from several serious conditions compared to women. Heart disease remains a major concern, with significantly higher hospital admissions and mortality rates for men. Cancer also casts a long shadow, with men experiencing a higher overall incidence and a considerably higher mortality rate. Tragically, suicide is the leading cause of death for men under 50, highlighting a critical need for improved mental health support.

Men in the UK are more likely to be overweight or obese, increasing their risk of various health problems. They also tend to engage in more risky behaviours, such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, which significantly impact their health outcomes. The cumulative effect of these factors contributes to a shorter life expectancy for men compared to women, with a significant proportion dying prematurely before the age of 75.

Adding to this burden, significant health disparities exist based on socioeconomic status and geographical location, with men in deprived areas living considerably shorter and less healthy lives. These sobering statistics underscore the urgent need for a more comprehensive approach to men’s health that goes beyond basic check-ups and addresses the multifaceted challenges they face.

Understanding the "Full Body MOT" concept for men

The term "full body MOT" has gained traction as a way to describe a thorough and proactive approach to men’s health. Drawing an analogy from the routine maintenance check-up that keeps a car running efficiently, a full body MOT for men aims to identify potential health issues in their early stages, often before any noticeable symptoms develop. The core principle is preventative care – focusing on maintaining good health and preventing the onset of diseases rather than just treating them once they arise.

The key aims of a full body MOT for men include early detection of potential health problems, gaining a clear understanding of one’s current health status, and providing peace of mind through comprehensive assessment. While "full body MOT" isn’t a standard medical term used within the NHS, it effectively communicates the desire for a thorough evaluation of overall health, often encompassing a wider range of tests and assessments than basic check-ups. This proactive approach empowers men to take control of their health, make informed lifestyle choices, and potentially avoid more serious health issues down the line.

Complementing NHS care: the comprehensive Well Man Check-Up

The NHS provides valuable health checks, such as the NHS Health Check offered to those aged 40-74, which are a "crucial intervention" in addressing diseases that affect men’s health, as highlighted by a recent BBC article on men’s health. These checks play an important role in identifying individuals at risk of certain conditions.   

Our goal is to complement and develop this essential service by offering a more in-depth and personalised approach through our Well Man Health Check-Up. Understanding that men may not engage with health services as regularly, as noted in the BBC article, our check-up is designed to be a comprehensive exploration of a man’s wellbeing. It moves beyond standard assessments to provide a highly personalised and comprehensive review of your health, encompassing an initial medical consultation, a full clinical examination, comprehensive men’s health blood testing, and a detailed lifestyle assessment.

Our extensive panel of laboratory screening tests offers a broader scope than typical routine checks, evaluating liver and kidney function, a full cholesterol profile, diabetes risk, iron and vitamin levels, and more. We also understand the importance of male-specific health concerns, offering the option for sexual health testing, as well as thorough testicular and prostate assessments. For those seeking a deeper understanding of specific areas, we provide tailored options like the Well Man Plus, including vital Bowel Cancer Screening and PSA testing for prostate health, and the Well Man Sports Performance, which incorporates a fitness and musculoskeletal assessment with VO2 Max testing, DEXA scans, and functional movement assessments catering to men with specific fitness goals.

The advantages of a private Well Man Health Check

Opting for a private Well Man Health Check offers several compelling advantages over standard healthcare services. One of the most significant benefits is faster access to appointments and reduced waiting times. Private clinics often offer same-day or next-day consultations, which is particularly beneficial for busy individuals.

Private Well Man Health Checks typically include more comprehensive testing. These often involve detailed blood panels assessing liver and kidney function, diabetes risk, cholesterol levels, iron status, vitamin levels, thyroid function, and male-specific hormones like testosterone and PSA. Some may also include urine analysis, ECGs, and bowel cancer screening. Private consultations often allow for longer appointment times, enabling more in-depth discussions and a personalised approach to care. Private healthcare can often facilitate faster access to specialist referrals and advanced diagnostic tests if needed. The comfortable and modern environment of private facilities, along with the option to see a male doctor, can also enhance the overall experience.

Key components of our comprehensive One5 Health Well Man Check

The One5 Health Well Man Health Check-Up delivers a highly personalised and comprehensive review of your health, with options to further tailor the assessment to your specific needs. The Well Man Health Check begins with an initial medical consultation and a full clinical examination conducted by a doctor, alongside a detailed lifestyle assessment. It includes an extensive panel of laboratory screening tests and a dedicated medical follow-up appointment to discuss the results and recommendations.

This core assessment features a Body Composition Bioimpedance Scan, providing insights into body fat percentage, muscle mass, and other key metrics. The extensive panel of laboratory tests thoroughly evaluates various aspects of health, including liver function, kidney function, a full cholesterol profile, diabetes risk, iron status, and vitamin levels. We include the option for sexual health testing, as well as thorough testicular and prostate assessments as part of the clinical examination.

Well Man Check Up Plus

For those seeking a more advanced evaluation, the Well Man Check Up PLUS builds upon the standard check-up with the inclusion of a Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test, a key marker for prostate health, and Bowel Cancer Screening.

Well Man Sports Performance

For men with an active lifestyle or specific fitness goals, the Well Man Sports Performance offers a tailored approach. This includes all the elements of the standard check-up, with the addition of a more in-depth fitness and musculoskeletal assessment. This performance package is conducted at a partner facility in Moorgate (EC2M), City of London, and lasts approximately 2 hours. A separate booking link is provided to schedule this on a day after the medical check-up. The performance package includes VO2 Max testing (on bike or treadmill), a DEXA Scan (bone density and body composition scan), and a Functional Movement Assessment (including grip strength, mobility, and posture assessment).

Regardless of the chosen option, we ensure a complete understanding of your current health, identify potential risks, and empower you to make informed decisions about your well-being with expert medical guidance during the follow-up consultation.

The crucial role of Male Hormone Blood Tests

Male hormone blood tests, particularly testosterone and PSA, are a vital aspect of a comprehensive Well Man Health Check. Testosterone plays a crucial role in numerous bodily functions, including muscle mass, bone density, sex drive, and mood. Low testosterone levels can lead to various symptoms like low energy, reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, and mood changes.

PSA testing is essential for prostate cancer screening, especially for men over 50 or those with risk factors such as a family history or being of African or Caribbean descent. Early detection of prostate cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes. As Sir Chris Hoy recently stated in the BBC, "Getting checked early can make all the difference."

Overcoming the barriers: why men should prioritise a "Full Body MOT”

Despite the clear benefits, many men avoid health checks due to various reasons. Societal expectations around masculinity often discourage men from showing vulnerability or seeking help. Fear of a negative diagnosis, lack of time due to busy schedules, embarrassment or discomfort, and overconfidence in their health also contribute to this reluctance.

Prioritising a full body MOT is a sign of strength and responsibility, not weakness. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates for many conditions, including cancer and heart disease. Taking proactive steps towards your health can lead to a longer and healthier life, not just for yourself but also for your loved ones.

Choosing the right "Full Body MOT": what to look for

When considering a private Well Man Check, it’s important to choose a service that meets your individual needs. Look for a comprehensive range of tests, including detailed blood work, hormone testing (testosterone and PSA), and screenings for relevant conditions like bowel cancer. Ensure the medical professionals are experienced in men’s health. Consider the consultation time and whether it allows for a thorough discussion of your health concerns. Enquire about follow-up support and referral processes. Checking the clinic’s reputation and patient reviews can also be helpful. Finally, ensure the cost aligns with your budget and the value offered.

Time to get proactive

Taking a proactive approach to your health is one of the most important investments you can make. Prioritise yourself and book your "full body MOT" and gain valuable insights into your current health and future risks. Early detection of potential health issues, coupled with personalised advice and support, empowers you to make informed decisions and take control of your wellbeing. If you’re ready to prioritise your health and gain a deeper understanding of your body's overall function, consider exploring our comprehensive Well Man Health Check-Up. It’s time to invest in your future health and wellbeing.