Prostate Cancer

Here are some suggestions from Mengel and other experts: - Don't start with the nagging.

Gently suggest that annual checkups are a reasonable and responsible thing to do, and leave it at that for now.

He needs time to get his head around the idea.

- Don't start by telling him how out of shape and unhealthy he is.

He knows these things.

This is precisely the reason he doesn't want to go to the doctor.

- Don't start with threats.

He'll just dig in his heels.

- Don't start with prophecies of doom and death.

This is another reason he won't go to the doctor.

He's scared.

He's afraid the doctor will tell him of his imminent doom and death.

He'd rather be surprised by these things.

- Appeal to his sense of responsibility as family provider and protector.

This tactic may take some time to work, but its chances of eventual success are high.

Most men cherish their role as provider and protector.

- Appeal to his love of his family.

Another good, though slow-acting, strategy.

- Clip articles and ads featuring sports figures and other "manly" men who advocate for men's health issues.

Leave these on the kitchen counter or on his desk or dresser, without comment.

But don't ask him whether he's read them.

That's nagging.

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