Abstract

 Men’s health outcomes and patterns of health service utilization are strongly shaped by social norms related to 
masculinity. Globally, men are less likely than women to seek preventive care, delay help-seeking even in severe 
health situations, and experience higher risks of mortality from preventable conditions and suicide. This paper 
reviews the conceptual foundations, empirical evidence, and intervention strategies related to men and 
masculinities in health, with particular attention to how gender norms influence help-seeking behavior and 
engagement with health services. Drawing on theories such as hegemonic masculinity and gender role conflict, the 
study examines how traits commonly associated with masculinity, including self-reliance, stoicism, emotional 
restraint, and risk-taking, shape health behaviors and discourage early interaction with health systems. The review 
synthesizes evidence on barriers to care, including stigma, service inaccessibility, negative past experiences, and 
social pressures that discourage vulnerability, as well as facilitators such as trusted providers, male-friendly 
environments, outreach programs, and peer support. It also analyzes intervention approaches targeting men’s 
health across several domains, including health promotion campaigns, primary care engagement strategies, mental 
health programs, chronic disease management, and suicide prevention initiatives. While emerging evidence 
suggests that gender-sensitive interventions can improve men’s engagement with health services, methodological 
challenges remain, particularly in the measurement of masculinity norms and help-seeking behaviors across 
diverse cultural contexts. The paper concludes that integrating masculinity-informed approaches into health 
policy and programming can improve health outcomes among men and boys while contributing to broader health 
equity goals.