Men - mind your health

The Movember campaign focuses on men's health throughout November

The health initiative Movember is more relevant than ever. Data from the insurance plan PFA Critical Illness show poor health among men and that they often ignore the early warning signs.

The cancer campaign Movember, which runs throughout November, is no longer solely focused on prostate cancer but now focuses on men's health in general. In addition to prostate cancer, the focus areas are testicular cancer, mental illnesses and physical inactivity – because men are not taking good enough care of themselves.

The wider focus is in line with PFA's health initiatives, which are as much about preventing illnesses as they are about curing them. If you are nonetheless diagnosed with an illness, the insurance plan PFA Critical Illness offers coverage.

Cancer and cardiovascular diseases top the list

For men, 46 % of the payouts from PFA Critical Illness in 2014 were made in connection with severe cases of cancer. The most frequent diagnoses were melanoma, prostate cancer and bowel cancer, which all were a lot more common than other types of cancer. The average age for men was 54, which, on average, is approximately 5 years later than for women. Statistics show that cardiovascular diseases also are a growing problem for men. 43 % of the payouts were made in connection with illnesses related to blood and vessels, of which balloon angioplasty alone accounted for 308 surgeries. In second and third place are cerebral blood clots and bypass surgeries.

The common denominator of cardiovascular diseases and several types of cancer is that, in many cases, they can be prevented. For instance by reducing one’s alcohol intake, exercising more, eating better or, put briefly – making lifestyle changes.

“Several critical illnesses are quite easily preventable, which means that denial is part of the issue,” Mikael Bitsch, Medical Consultant and Clinical Associate Professor, says and continues:

“We all know that we ought to make running a priority, that we should limit our calorie intake, eat less cake and restrict ourselves to a single steak instead of two. For example, a meatless day a week would mean better health both when it comes to cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Small changes make a big difference, but it requires willpower and motivation.”

Diet vs treatment

Mikael Bitsch is convinced that "food can be used as medicine". He is co-author of several books, including the Danish cookbook The Healing Kitchen (Det helbredende køkken), which is for everyone who wants more energy and well-being.

“Let me be clear: Being overweight is highly dangerous. In this regard, our diets play a key role, and our diet is something we are all able to work on. For example, a large study by the Danish Cancer Society shows that obesity and processed meat are closely related to cancer. With basic, green ingredients and significantly less meat, you can cook healthy and good food. And green food doesn't have to be boring. Without going hungry, you can lose weight and feel more energised in just four weeks. This will benefit everyone, but it is especially interesting if you suffer from type 2 diabetes, are at risk of developing it, or if you have high cholesterol levels. Your diet can – roughly speaking- be used as treatment or relief, reduce your use of medication, have a preventive effect and help improve your general health,” Mikael Bitsch explains.

Financial consolation

Unfortunately, preventive measures are not the answer to everything. Sometimes, an illness occurs anyway and, in that case, it is important to have insurance coverage. If you are diagnosed with a critical illness, you will receive a lump sum, and it is entirely up to you how you spend the money.

“There is no doubt that a critical illness turns both one’s everyday life, thoughts and family matters upside down. It is a difficult time that requires some form of extra resources, and, here, PFA Critical Illness can be seen as financial consolation,” says Rikke Bay Haaber, Head of Strategic Health & Prevention at PFA. 

The lump sum is tax-free and you can spend it anyway you like. It may be a relief to pay off debt, travel far away from a while or let your partner take a leave of absence. The money is yours because a critical illness requires room for flexibility.

For men, 46 % of the payouts from PFA Critical Illness in 2014 were made in connection with severe cases of cancer. The most frequent diagnoses were melanoma, prostate cancer and bowel cancer, which all were a lot more common than other types of cancer. The average age for men was 54, which, on average, is approximately 5 years later than for women. Statistics show that cardiovascular diseases also are a growing problem for men.

Fact: If worse comes to worse

PFA’s close cooperation with the Danish Health and Medicines Authority ensures that you will be informed of the possibility of a payout from PFA Critical Illness. Of course, you are also always welcome to contact PFA Health Centre.  

Fact: Your cover with PFA Critical Illness

PFA Critical Illness covers a wide range of diagnoses. Here, you can see the most common ones.

  • Certain types of cancer
  • Balloon angioplasty
  • Cerebral blood clot
  • Bypass surgery
  • Heart valve surgery