Macho attitudes, the slippery slope into a sedentary state and a lack of information about restarting exercise regimens are all factors contributing to health issues with men, according to three local health care professionals.

Spurred forth by Movember, they are advising men to take better care of themselves. That includes checking for prostate and colon cancer and heart disease – three major factors affecting men’s health.

While none of the men sport a moustache, they are still happy to talk about mens health issues.

“The biggest issue is men don’t pursue health issues as much as women,” said physiotherapist Sean FitzGerald. “We see guys who are fit, but for several reasons, they become less active and take less care of themselves and have issues with hips and knees and other areas.”

Physiotherapist Todd Wolansky said about 25 per cent of his patients are men, but more men need to take ownership of their own health.

“We brush our teeth every day and don’t even think about it. It doesn’t take much time to take care of your back or knees as well.” Wolansky said. “If you do basic exercises, you can address a lot of these issues.

Too often, men wait until it’s too late to have their health issues checked out.

“People come in between the ages of 45 and 55 when the issues are more concerning. By that time, the joints are blown out and may need to get replaced,” FitzGerald said.

“There are red flags that might trigger us to advise you to see a physician,” Wolansky said. “Men tend to see medical professionals less, so there are less eyes to catch things... Women are more proactive.”

Playing hockey growing up, Wolansky said there is a mentality that playing hurt is okay.

“The macho thing is there. The question was always are you hurt or are you injured. Guys wait until they’re completely injured to get help.”

In order to maintain a healthy lifestyle, FitzGerald has no surprises: two-and-a-half to three hours of exercise per week and eat healthy. Barbecued foods contribute to heart disease, he said, so it’s best to avoid those on a regular basis.

“But it’s everything in moderation,” FitzGerald said. “I still enjoy having a few drinks, as it reduces stress. But going out Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday isn’t a good idea.”

Dr. Matt McGrath, a chiropractor in Jasper said it’s not about changing lifestyle completely. It’s about making small changes.

“People are sick of hearing it, but a low sodium, low fat diet and even a half hour walk can help your health,” Dr. McGrath said.

McGrath said teaching people to do movements properly contributes to a healthy body, as does controlling portion size.

“Men overeat a lot. Even if they’re eating the right foods , they’re often eating too much.”

“The big thing is to be reasonable,” Wolansky said. “Ask ‘what are the risk factors, what are the little things that can be done to improve health.’”

In Jasper, there is a high percentage of physically fit individuals, however that can also serve as a barrier for others.

“Jasper has a great reputation as a fit community... but there is a hidden population that are intimidated,” FitzGerald said.

“That could contribute to other problems. There’s a different attitude,” McGrath said.

He also said young people who work long hours need care.

“There is a young population that works two jobs, 15 hours of the day. How do they fit in time for exercising? You have to give them something that takes 20 minutes. Any longer and they likely won’t do it,” FitzGerald said.