When it comes to good health care, prevention is always better than a cure. Preventive care is the key to maintaining good health. Even if you already believe you are in good health, it is still a good idea to schedule regular health screenings. They will help encourage healthy habits in the present moment and help avoid bad habits from leading to problems in the future.
It’s common knowledge to make appointments for annual physical exams, get your flu shot, and schedule eye and dental checkups. Yet, for men, several other health screening tests are often forgotten about. For each health screening, it’s important to note that you may need to schedule health screenings more often if you have a family history of a particular medical condition. Let’s look at each health screening in further detail.
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1. Blood Pressure Screening
It’s recommended for all ages to check your blood pressure at least every two years. The doctor will look at two numbers: systolic (top) and diastolic (bottom). If the systolic number is between 120 and 139 mm Hg or the diastolic number is between 80 and 89 mm HG, get your blood pressure check each year. If you are outside that range (above 130 or below 80), consult with your doctor on how to lower your blood pressure to avoid future issues.
2. Cholesterol Screening
Regular cholesterol screening generally begins at 35 if there are no risk factors for coronary heart disease. But, if you are at risk, you should schedule a health screening at 20. After you’ve begun screenings, regardless of age, schedule checkups every five years; if you experience lifestyle changes such as changes in diet or weight, repeat tests sooner.
3. Colorectal Cancer Screening
For men over 50, you should schedule a health screening for colorectal cancer. This is cancer that appears in the colon or the rectum. It’s vital if you have a family history of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or polyps (abnormal tissue growths).
4. Diabetes Screening
There are many reasons why you may need a diabetes health screening. One, your blood pressure is 130/80 mm Hg or greater. Two, your body mass index (BMI) is greater than 25 or Asian Americans greater than 23.
5. Infectious Disease Screening
All adults 18 years old and up should get a health screening for Hepatitis C. Also, you may need to get a health screening for infections such as syphilis, chlamydia, HIV, and others.
6. Lung Cancer Screening
If you are over the age of 55, are a heavy smoker (30 packs per year), and currently smoke or have quit within the last 15 years, you should schedule a lung cancer screening.
7. Osteoporosis Screening
Osteoporosis is a medical condition that weakens your bones. They can become so fragile where common injuries include a broken wrist or hip. Risk factors for osteoporosis are heavy alcohol consumption, low body weight, prolonged steroid use, smoking, experiencing a fracture after 50, or a family history of osteoporosis. If you have any of these risk factors and are between the ages of 50 and 70, it’s essential to schedule an osteoporosis screening.
8. Prostate Cancer Screening
Prostate cancer screening is generally recommended for men between the ages of 55 and 69. During the health screening, you will receive a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test.
9. Skin Exam
During a skin exam, your provider will check for signs of skin cancer. This is important if you are at high risk of developing skin cancer. Those at high risk have either had skin cancer before, have a weakened immune system, or have close relatives with skin cancer.
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There is a lot to think about! If you have questions about any preventive health screening tests for men, connecting with a doctor in a discrete setting has never been easier.
Opt Health is a telehealth platform that reconnects men with wellness, fitness, strength, and sexual vitality through scientific preventive medicine. From your own home, you can schedule with a physician, meet one-on-one via video conference, receive test results, and have medications delivered to your door.
For questions, inquiries, or appointments, don’t hesitate to contact us. Get personalized support and insight from top-tier physicians available 24/7.
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