They are our dads, brothers, husbands, and sons. Men love to take the steering wheel when it comes to their roles in life, but their health often takes a backseat. June is Men’s Health Awareness Month — a time to remind the guys in our lives about the importance of caring for their bodies.
One of the best ways for men to look after themselves is through preventive screenings. These tests and check-ups help men and their doctors catch and treat issues early, improving the chance of a successful outcome.
But what screenings are the most important? And are they necessary for every age? Let’s look at some helpful screenings for men that can help catch potential health issues early on.
What Screenings Should Men Get?
A man’s health needs will change as he gets older, as the risk of developing certain conditions increases with age. Lifestyle, medical history, and family history will also influence the types of screenings needed and when.
The recommendations below are meant to be a general guide. Your doctor can recommend a personalized screening schedule based on your specific risk factors.
Men Under Age 39
Starting at age 18, men should schedule preventative screenings such as:
- Blood pressure — This is a simple screening your doctor usually performs at every appointment. And while it may be simple, it’s essential. High blood pressure is a significant risk factor for heart disease and stroke. The American Heart Association recommends that all adults have their blood pressure checked at least once a year, regardless of gender or age.
- Immunizations — Staying up-to-date on vaccinations protects men from preventable diseases. Talk to your doctor about which immunizations they recommend for you based on age, lifestyle, and medical risks.
- Testicular self-exams — Early detection is key for testicular cancer. Your doctor can teach you how to perform a self-exam and what to look for. This is an easy exam to do yourself once a month in the shower, no appointment necessary.
- Cholesterol screenings — High cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease. The American Heart Association recommends that all adults over age 20 have their cholesterol checked every four to six years or more frequently if they have additional risk factors.
Men Aged 40 and Older
In addition to the screenings above, men 40 and over should consider:
- Colorectal cancer screenings — Colorectal cancer is most treatable in the early stages, so it’s important to catch it as soon as possible. The American Cancer Society recommends that men start screening for it at age 45 or earlier if they have a family history.
- Prostate cancer screenings — This is a common cancer in men. In general, you should start screening for this around age 55, but you may need to start screening for it earlier if there is a history of prostate cancer in your family.
- Diabetes screenings—Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects a man’s overall well-being. The American Diabetes Association recommends that all men be screened for the condition every three years after age 45 or more often if they have additional risk factors.
Remember, this is not an exhaustive list. Talk to your doctor about what screenings are right for you.
Why Screenings Matter
Scheduling a screening can cause anxiety, and those feelings of uncertainty can lead a lot of men to delay coming in for their test. However, preventative screenings are an important investment in long-term health and well-being.
Catching health issues early often means:
- Less invasive treatment options. Early detection can mean the difference between treating a condition with medication or an outpatient procedure instead of a major surgery and a long recovery.
- Higher chance of a successful outcome. Many health concerns are highly treatable in their early stages. Early detection is key to successful treatment outcomes.
- Improved quality of life. Early intervention can help prevent serious health complications and allow you to maintain an active lifestyle for much longer.
We know coming in for a screening can be unsettling, but they are the best way to take charge of your health. By getting the right screenings for your age, you and your doctor can work together to keep you healthy, strong, and there for your loved ones.
Men’s Health Awareness Month at EARH
East Adams Rural Healthcare believes men deserve personalized care that prioritizes their well-being. We offer a wide range of preventative screenings, and you can schedule appointments with male physicians if you prefer.
June may be Men’s Health Awareness Month, but any time is a good time to prioritize your health. Schedule a checkup today and make your health a year-round commitment.
Sources:
- https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007465.htm
- https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007464.htm
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/consumer-healthcare/what-is-cardiovascular-disease/heart-health-screenings
- https://www.webmd.com/men/testicular-exam
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol/about-cholesterol/what-your-cholesterol-levels-mean
- https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/colon-rectal-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/acs-recommendations.html
- https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/prostate-cancer/prostate-cancer-age-specific-screening-guidelines
- https://www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2023/23_0173.htm
