Dr. David Bell, MD, MPH, shares his thoughts on the future of young men's health. As a doctor who works in young men's health at Columbia University, Dr. Bell explains how we can all help young men move forward in a positive, healthy direction.

Q: What are some of the major health issues that young men are faced with?

A: Health professionals know that sex and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a big concern for young men, so that might be what brings many guys into the doctor's office. However, once you get young men into the office, there are a lot of issues that can and should be talked about. Some young men do have medical issues not related to sex-these include general and common medical issues, sore throats, sports injuries, and also mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety.

We also know that broader life issues, such as work, school, and family can affect health and at the Young Men's Clinic we try to help patients connect with resources so that they end up living better, healthier lives. There are many health- related issues a doctor can discover and address with young men once they come into the clinic and are open to having discussions.

Q: Do you think young men have the same resources to health information as women do?

A: Yes, but the types of conversations that men have with their doctors aren't the same as the conversations that women have with their doctors. For example, in our society, we say that we want young men to support their sexual partners to use methods of birth control, but there are no ways for them to hear and know about what birth control is and what types there are. This is not something that most doctors talk to young men about. I think we are doing a disservice to young men because they want to be involved in their relationships in a positive and supportive role, but are often not able to because they aren't getting the same health information that young women receive.

Q: Is there anywhere on the Internet that young men can visit to find good health information?

A: There are actually some fairly good websites for men's health. There is a young men's website out of Children's Hospital Boston and helpful resources if you visit the Mayo Clinic website. If young men want information on relationship and sexual health, Go Ask Alice! is a Columbia University website that addresses some good questions that guys have asked health professionals in the past.

Q: What final messages would you give to young men wanting advice on their health?

A: Find a doctor's office that you feel comfortable going to. Taking that step will help you get healthy, stay healthy and understand your health, which are all very important and will help you feel better in the long run. Talking to a doctor is not nearly as bad as young men often worry about. For example, young men will be worried about whether they have a sexually transmitted disease (STD) or worried about HIV. To those young men I say, go in and get tested. Once you know your status, the majority of the time the answer will make you feel relieved and you can make better decisions without being anxious. Occasionally, the health result isn't so great, but there are always things you can do about it and steps you can take to make sure you stay as healthy as possible.

Harlem Word is a series of interview with Harlem health experts, written by HHPC and reviewed by our Health Advisory Board.