No Te Aguantes: How Often Latino Men Should See A Doctor (And How To Find One You Trust)
Latino men are often raised with a strong sense of pride, endurance, and self-reliance. The idea of aguantarse—to tough it out, to endure pain without complaining—has been passed down through generations. While resilience is a core strength of our communities, this mindset can be harmful when it comes to health. For many Latino men, avoiding the doctor until something feels “really wrong” is seen as a badge of strength. But the truth is, this cultural norm is contributing to disproportionately high rates of chronic illness and late-stage diagnoses within our communities.
According to the American Cancer Society, Latino men are more likely to be diagnosed with certain cancers, like prostate and colorectal, at later stages—when they are harder to treat. This is largely because preventative screenings and regular doctor’s visits are often delayed or avoided entirely. Data from the CDC shows that Hispanic adults are less likely to be up to date on key screenings compared to white adults, and nearly 28% of Hispanic adults under 65 lack health insurance, creating additional barriers to care. But the cost of not going can be far greater—physically, emotionally, and financially.
So when should Latino men actually go to the doctor?
The answer is: sooner and more often than many currently do. Ideally, every adult male should schedule an annual wellness exam—even if they feel perfectly healthy. These check-ups allow doctors to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels, all of which can indicate risks for serious conditions like heart disease or diabetes. For many men, especially those with family histories of these illnesses, screenings should start as early as their late 20s or early 30s.
Cancer screenings are also essential. Latinos should begin getting screened for colorectal cancer at age 45, or earlier if there’s a family history. Prostate cancer screenings should typically begin at age 50, but if you have a family history or are Black or Latino, your doctor may recommend starting at age 45. Skin exams, testicular checks, and conversations about mental health should also be part of regular care throughout adulthood.
Unfortunately, cultural myths and misinformation often stand in the way. Many Latino men believe that they only need to see a doctor when they feel sick. Others avoid screenings out of embarrassment or fear—especially when it comes to procedures like colonoscopies or prostate exams. But there are alternative, less invasive tests available (like at-home stool tests for colorectal cancer), and most screenings are quick and painless. More importantly, they can save lives.
Finding a doctor you can trust.
One of the biggest hurdles in going to the doctor—especially for the first time in a while—is finding someone you feel comfortable with. For Latino men, trust is everything. If you’ve grown up hearing stories of medical mistreatment, or past experiences were uncomfortable or confusing, it’s completely normal to feel hesitant. But there are ways to find a provider who understands your values and background.
Start by asking around. Personal referrals from friends, family members, or coworkers can be a great way to find a doctor who already has a good reputation in the community. If someone you trust has had a positive experience, there’s a good chance you will too. Don’t be afraid to ask specifically whether the doctor or staff speaks Spanish, or if the office is used to working with Latino patients—these details matter and can make a big difference in how supported you feel.
If you don’t have anyone to ask, use tools designed for this exact purpose. Websites like Zocdoc, Healthgrades, and your local health insurance provider’s directory let you filter by language, gender, specialty, and patient reviews.
When choosing a doctor, don’t hesitate to “interview” them during your first visit. You have every right to ask questions and see if they listen respectfully, explain things clearly, and take the time to understand your personal and family history. If something feels off, or you don’t feel heard, it’s okay to look for another provider. Building trust takes time, but it starts with feeling respected from the very beginning.
To shift this mindset, it helps to reframe the conversation.
Going to the doctor is not a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of responsibility and strength. It’s about being around longer for your kids, your parents, your friends. It’s about protecting your ability to work, provide, and live fully. For many men, involving a trusted family member or friend in the process can make the experience less intimidating. Bringing someone along to the appointment or asking for a Latinx provider are all cultural ways to ease into the healthcare system.
It’s also important to talk openly about “machismo”—the idea that real men don’t show vulnerability. The truth is, taking care of your health is one of the most powerful things you can do as a man. It’s not about being invincible; it’s about being informed, proactive, and present. Even undocumented individuals have options for care, such as community clinics and sliding-scale services, regardless of immigration status.
Organizations across the country are working to make health care more accessible and inclusive for Latino men. For example, the American Heart Association highlights that Hispanic men are significantly less likely to see a doctor compared to their white counterparts, and attributes much of that to cultural stigma around seeking help. The National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable offers a bilingual guide to help Latinos navigate screening options. And the American Cancer Society continues to publish vital statistics about cancer risks and screening recommendations tailored to Hispanic and Latino populations.
It’s time to break the cycle. Latino men deserve to live long, healthy lives. That starts with letting go of outdated beliefs about health and masculinity—and choosing instead to take charge of your well-being. Your life is worth it, and so is your family’s future. Make the appointment. Ask the questions. Show up—for yourself, and for the people who count on you.
