Men’s Health
A little prevention goes a long way
Don’t let illness sneak up on you. Paying attention to your health, even when you feel fine, can make staying well easier in the long term.
Regular screenings, tests, and check-ups with a doctor are good ways to take control of your health. These exams can make it easier to spot problems early when treatment is often more effective. They might even prevent a problem from developing in the first place.
Before your check-up, you should review your family medical history. Your doctor will want to know if close relatives had health conditions such as heart trouble, stroke, diabetes, or cancer.
Also, tell your doctor about any changes in your own health. That includes new lumps, skin changes, pain, dizziness, sleep problems, changes in bowel or urinary habits, or changes in eating.
Your doctor can then recommend which preventive health services and screenings you should have and when you should have them.
Which screenings are for you?
Some of the screenings that your doctor might recommend could include tests for:
- Cholesterol. Starting at age 20, all adults should have their cholesterol tested every five years. High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease.
- Blood Pressure. Have this checked at least once every two years. High blood pressure increases the risks of heart and kidney disease and stroke.
- Diabetes. If your blood pressure is higher than 135/80 or you take medicine for high blood pressure, you should get screened for diabetes.
- Colorectal Cancer. Most adults should have their first exam at age 50. Ask your doctor which of the several available tests are right for you.
Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of prostate cancer screening. Also, men between the ages of 65 and 75 and who have ever been smokers should ask about screening for an abdominal aortic aneurysm.
Speak to the experts
To find out which screenings are recommended for you, make an appointment to see your doctor.
Sources: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality; American Heart Association
Resources
Test for Sexually Transmitted Infections or Disease
You may not notice any signs or symptoms of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Getting a yearly wellness exam can help catch problems early, when they’re easier to treat. A man’s health can change quickly, which is why staying on top of routine checkups is important. Learn more about sexually transmitted infections.
You can call your primary care provider (PCP) to schedule a yearly wellness exam, or you may visit a urologist or men’s health specialist.
