Only two-thirds of men would seek out a doctor if they developed chest pain, according to a new survey highlighting the reluctance of the male gender to seek medical care.
Researchers found some two per cent of men who claimed they had never seen a doctor.
And 20 per cent have not seen a doctor within the last three years, according to the survey of some 1,000 men.
As many as two thirds of men knew of close relatives who had suffered from cancer, stroke or heart disease – but proved unlikely to undergo blood pressure or cholesterol testing.
Researchers found that 42 per cent of men believed their health to be good – while 41 per cent admitted to weight issues. But nine per cent had never weighed themselves.
And 59 per cent declared they would not visit a doctor to discuss weight gain.
As many as 82 per cent of men recognised that blood in the urine would be a reason to visit the doctor – while 65 per cent said chest pain would be a reason and 48 per cent referred to blurred vision.
The survey was conducted for the new Blue Ribbon Foundation, which is pledged to raise cash and awareness for male cancer.
Mr Krishna Sethia, a consultant urologist at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, said: "I welcome any positive move that will make men more aware of health issues relating to themselves.
"Men are often too embarrassed to discuss their symptoms but they need to, as early diagnosis can make a significant difference to their chances of successful treatment."
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