Top Health Concerns for Gay Men: What You Need to Know
Let’s be real—taking care of your health might not always be at the top of your to-do list, but it should be. Gay men face some unique health challenges, and knowing what’s up can help you stay healthy and live your best life. Here’s the lowdown on what to watch for and how to keep yourself in tip-top shape.
1. Sexual Health: Wrap It Up, Stay Safe
Sexual health is super important. STIs like HIV, syphilis, and gonorrhea are more common in gay men, but prevention is totally doable.
What to Do:
Use condoms (yes, every time)
Get tested regularly—it’s no big deal and can save you a lot of trouble
Ask your doc about PrEP if you want extra protection from HIV
2. Mental Health: Don’t Ignore It
Anxiety, depression, and stress? Yep, they can hit hard. Life’s already stressful, and dealing with stigma or rejection makes it tougher. The key? Take your mental health seriously.
What to Do:
Talk to someone—whether it’s a friend or a therapist, or even spending some time with Dr. Block or John at the Cove Concierge Medicine
Make time for what makes you happy (music, gaming, naps… whatever works)
Don’t be afraid to ask for help
3. Heart Health: Not Just for Your Grandma
Heart disease isn’t just for older folks. Smoking, poor eating habits, and stress can take a toll on your heart no matter how young you are.
What to Do:
Move more—dancing totally counts as exercise
Eat real food (sorry, most fast food doesn’t count)
Chill out—find ways to relax that don’t involve a cigarette or a drink
4. Cancer Screenings: Better Safe Than Sorry
Anal cancer is more common among gay men, especially if you’ve had HPV. No one loves talking about cancer screenings, but catching stuff early can make a huge difference.
What to Do:
Get screened regularly—awkward for a minute, but worth it
Ask about the HPV vaccine
Keep an eye on any abnormal changes in your body and tell your doctor or provider
5. Substance Use: Know Your Limits
Let’s be honest—partying can be fun, but it’s easy to go overboard. Gay men are more likely to deal with substance use issues, and that can seriously mess with your health.
What to Do:
Be real with yourself—are your habits healthy or getting out of control?
Reach out if you need help—there’s no shame in it
Find better ways to handle stress (gym, friends, or hiking, anyone?)
Take Care of You
The bottom line? Your health matters. Find a doctor you trust, ask all the questions, and stay on top of things. You’ve got one body—treat it right, and it’ll treat you right back.
Schedule a confidential consultation with The Cove's gender-affirming healthcare team today.
