It’s a preventable fact that men tend to have shorter life expectancies, a greater risk of cardiovascular disease and are less likely to seek care when sick.
“Many of the most serious health conditions affecting men can develop quietly, without obvious symptoms,” says Scott Ellner, D.O., INTEGRIS Health’s chief physician executive. “That’s why regular checkups, screenings and conversations with a primary care provider are so important. These visits help men understand which tests are right for them based on their age, family history and overall health, and they can play a critical role in preventing disease or catching it early when it is most treatable.”
Here are the top five health screenings recommended for men.
- Blood pressure and cholesterol
- High cholesterol and high blood pressure both increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, two of the most common causes of death for men.
- More than 60% of men ages 40 to 59 have high blood pressure. That number jumps to 75% when men reach age 60.
- Medication prescribed by a provider can help, as can lifestyle changes focusing on heart-healthy foods and regular exercise. Monitoring blood pressure is an important gauge for men to keep their health in check.
- A full cholesterol panel is another important measure to determine underlying levels that may be contributing to an increased risk of heart disease.
- Blood sugar and metabolic panel
- Blood glucose tests are used to monitor your blood sugars, and screen for diabetes.
- More than 1 in 10 Americans have diabetes, and men are more likely to develop it than women.
- Catching this condition sooner is key because it can lead to other health issues like heart disease, kidney failure and limb loss. Most men would benefit from an annual check in for a metabolic panel and blood sugar screening.
- Colorectal cancer
- Getting screened or a colonoscopy is essential for men beginning at age 45, but it’s important to recognize that colorectal cancer is increasingly found among younger adults too.
- Those at higher risk should get screened earlier than 45, such as if a member of your family has had colorectal cancer.
- Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death for men overall, but recent research has shown it’s a leading cause of cancer-related death in men who are 20 to 49.
- When caught in the early stages of disease, colorectal cancer is significantly more treatable. In addition to colonoscopies, there are other screening methods that your provider might recommend.
- Prostate cancer
- Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer among men. It’s a slow-growing cancer that’s best treated when caught early – before symptoms appear.
- 13% of men develop prostate cancer in their lifetime.
- The majority of prostate cancer cases are diagnosed in men over 65.
- In addition to prostate exams, men can opt for a screening called a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. Through this simple blood test, prostate cancer can be detected earlier while giving patients the best opportunity for treatment.
- Skin cancer and melanoma
- A skin exam will help you catch skin cancer early on and stop it in its tracks.
- As little as five sunburns can increase the risk of developing skin cancer. Everyday sun exposure also adds up overtime and increases risk.
- Melanoma is a deadly type of skin cancer and affects more men than women.
- If you are noticing an increase of suspicious moles, growths and other changes in your skin, you should consider getting a skin exam.
“Preventive care is one of the most important ways men can protect their long-term health,” Ellner adds. “Screenings and routine tests can help identify concerns like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and certain cancers before symptoms appear. Staying up to date on recommended checkups gives men the opportunity to catch problems early, start treatment sooner if needed and make informed decisions about their health at every stage of life.”
Next steps
Your primary care provider will work with you or the men in your life to determine whether you need all of these screenings now or can schedule them for the future. Guidelines will vary depending on age, personal health and family history of disease.
Primary care is your front door to a healthier life. Your doctor will work with you as your go-to advocate and expert to address your personal health, well-being and men’s health needs. Click here to see a list of available primary care providers or here to schedule an appointment online.
