Australian men are overweight, have a higher risk of cancer, prone to illicit drug use, injury, and smoking and have a shorter life expectancy that women but don't expect them to see a doctor about it, at least according to a recent study by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.

The report which was released as part of the government's National Male Health Policy revealed that more than 68 percent of Australian men are overweight or obese, 48 percent have a mental health condition. The results also showed a distressing fact that 16 percent of Australian men don't go to doctors for medical conditions.

The Australian also reports that only 5 percent of Australian males eat enough fruits and vegetables for a balanced diet and that less than a third of over 15 year old males participate in an organized sport.

Men who participate in regular physical activities and sports are those who are in the higher socio-economic spectrum. Almost half of Australian males had suffered a mental health condition and one quarter had a disability.

To encourage men to overcome their hesitation in seeking medical help, the government will offer men free health checks through Men's Sheds. There are a host of reasons why men are more reluctant to go to their GP. The AIHW report says that men are embarrassed about discussing emotional and sexual health issues with a female doctor or just filling out the reason for a doctor's visit in the waiting room.

It ultimately boils down to men's views of masculinity that seeking medical help isn't something manly. This overly masculine view of the world also drives men to take part in risky behavior that involve violence, drinking, gambling and accident prevention. The AIHW report shows that half of all males aged over 15 have been involved in violent activities, about one in 10 were at risk for alcohol-related harm and 13 percent of males were hospitalized because of injury or poisoning.