As men, it's not uncommon to focus on work, family, and other responsibilities while neglecting your own health. But guess what? Your health matters too! Regular preventive health screenings are like little check-ins with your body, helping you stay on top of your health game and catch any potential issues early on. But, it can also get confusing on what kind of checkup you need, and when.

So, let's dive into some essential screenings every man should know about.

Prostate Cancer Screening

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. Screenings can help detect prostate cancer early when it is most treatable.

When to Start and How Often:

• Age 50 and above: Men should discuss the benefits and risks of prostate cancer screening with their healthcare provider.
• Age 45: For men at high risk, including African American men and those with a family history of prostate cancer.
• Age 40: For men with a very high risk, such as having multiple family members diagnosed with prostate cancer before age 65.

What to Expect: Prostate cancer screening typically involves a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test, and sometimes a Digital Rectal Exam (DRE). During a DRE, the doctor will feel the prostate for abnormalities. These tests can help identify changes in the prostate that might suggest cancer.

To learn more about prostate cancer, risk factors, symptoms and treatment options, we spoke with Ghufran Ahmed, M.D., an internist and physician on the medical staff at Texas Health Allen and at Texas Health Adult Care, a Texas Health Physicians Group practice, to create “Understanding Prostate Cancer.”

Colorectal Cancer Screening

Colorectal cancer screenings can detect early signs of cancer and precancerous polyps in the colon and rectum.

When to Start and How Often:

• Age 45: Regular screenings should start. There are several types of screening tests:
• Colonoscopy: Every 10 years.
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy: Every 5 years.
• Fecal immunochemical test (FIT): Every year.
• Stool DNA test: Every 3 years.

What to Expect: Colonoscopy is the most thorough screening method. It involves using a long, flexible tube with a camera to examine the entire colon. Preparation involves dietary restrictions and a bowel-cleansing regimen. Other tests, like the FIT, require a simple stool sample.

To learn more about colorectal cancer, the risk factors, symptoms and treatment options, visit our series of blogs on the topic.

Blood Pressure Screening

High blood pressure is a common condition that can lead to serious health issues like heart disease and stroke.

When to Start and How Often:

• Starting at age 18: Check at least every 2 years if your blood pressure is normal (less than 120/80 mm Hg).
• Annually: If your blood pressure is elevated (120–129/less than 80 mm Hg) or if you have risk factors for hypertension.

What to Expect: Blood pressure screening is quick and painless. It involves placing an inflatable cuff around your arm to measure the pressure in your arteries as your heart beats and rests.

Interested in learning more? Here’s “What You Should Know About High Blood Pressure.”

Cholesterol Screening

High cholesterol can lead to heart disease and other cardiovascular problems.

When to Start and How Often:

• Age 20 and above: Every 4-6 years. Men with cardiovascular risk factors, such as obesity, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease, may need more frequent testing.

What to Expect: A blood test called a lipid panel measures total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, HDL (good) cholesterol, and triglycerides. It's usually done after fasting for 9-12 hours.

Read “How to Improve Your Heart Health At Any Age” to learn more about taking control of your cholesterol.

Diabetes Screening

Diabetes can lead to serious health complications if not managed properly. Early detection through screening is key to effective management.

When to Start and How Often:

• Age 45 and above: Every 3 years, especially if overweight or obese.
• Earlier and more frequently: If you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or a family history of diabetes.

What to Expect: Diabetes screening involves a blood test, such as the fasting plasma glucose (FPG) test, the A1C test, or an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).
Interested in learning more about diabetes? Head to our series that covers everything from preventing diabetes to how to create a diabetes-friendly grocery list.

Testicular Cancer Screening

While testicular cancer is relatively rare, it is most common in younger men aged 15 to 35.

When to Start and How Often:

• Self-exams: Monthly self-exams are recommended for all men starting in their teens.

What to Expect: Self-exams involve gently rolling each testicle between the thumb and fingers to check for lumps or changes. If you notice anything unusual, consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

To learn more about testicular cancer, risk factors, symptoms and treatment options, hop over to our recent blog post.

Skin Cancer Screening

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. Early detection through regular screenings is crucial.

When to Start and How Often:

• Annually: Full-body skin exams are recommended for all men, especially those with a history of skin cancer, significant sun exposure, or fair skin.

What to Expect: A dermatologist will examine your skin from head to toe, looking for any suspicious moles or lesions. This exam is non-invasive and takes about 10-15 minutes.

The Takeaway

For men everywhere, the journey to health empowerment begins with understanding the significance of preventive health screenings. These screenings aren't just routine appointments; they're proactive measures that put you in control of your own well-being and future.

Open communication with your health care provider is key. Don't hesitate to ask questions, voice concerns, or seek clarification about recommended screenings.

Make a commitment to yourself to schedule those screenings and follow through on them. Whether it’s a prostate exam, colonoscopy, or any other recommended test, by prioritizing preventive health screenings, you can take proactive steps toward maintaining your well-being and reducing your risk of serious health conditions.

Staying on top of your health is not only important to you, it’s also important to us. If you are looking for a doctor, Texas Health Resources offers an easy-to-use tool. Simply choose the specialty, type in your zip code, and select a range. Once a list of physicians appears, you can click on a physician and access contact information, educational background, and a list of insurance plans the doctor accepts.