Blood Pressure Screening: The Silent Threat to Men's Health
High blood pressure, often dubbed the “silent killer,” affects one in three men globally and is a leading cause of heart disease and stroke. Regular men’s health screenings that include blood pressure checks can detect hypertension early, before symptoms appear. According to the World Health Organization, high blood pressure contributes to nearly 10 million deaths worldwide each year.
Men over the age of 18 should get their blood pressure checked at least every two years. Those with risk factors such as obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, smoking, or a family history of hypertension may need more frequent screenings.
What to expect: The test is simple and non-invasive. It involves a cuff placed around your arm that measures systolic and diastolic pressure. A reading of 120/80 mmHg is considered normal, while anything above 130/80 mmHg may indicate elevated or high blood pressure.
Why it matters: Left untreated, hypertension can damage arteries, leading to heart failure, kidney disease, and vision problems. Including blood pressure checks as a key part of men’s health can make a significant difference in life expectancy.
Cholesterol Test: Protecting Your Heart Through Men's Health Screenings
High cholesterol is another risk factor that often shows no symptoms until it’s too late. Elevated cholesterol levels can lead to the build-up of plaque in arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. That’s why regular cholesterol testing should be a cornerstone of men’s health routines, especially for those over the age of 20.
According to the U.S. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adults should have their cholesterol checked every 4 to 6 years. However, men with a family history of heart disease or other risk factors may need to be screened more often.
What the test includes: A standard lipid panel measures total cholesterol, LDL (“Bad” cholesterol), HDL (“Good” cholesterol), and triglycerides. Healthy levels vary, but generally, LDL should be below 100 mg/dL and HDL above 40 mg/dL.
Why it matters: High cholesterol can be managed through lifestyle changes and medications. By incorporating cholesterol tests into men’s health checks, men can catch problems early and take steps to prevent cardiovascular events.
Prostate Cancer Screening: A Crucial Component of Men's Health Over 50
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men worldwide, yet it is also one of the most treatable when caught early. Men’s health screenings for prostate cancer usually begin around age 50, though men at higher risk, such as those with a family history or African ancestry, may need to start at age 45.
There are two primary types of prostate cancer screenings:
- PSA test (Prostate-Specific Antigen): A blood test that measures the level of PSA, a protein produced by the prostate. Elevated levels may indicate cancer but can also be caused by benign conditions.
- Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A physical exam where a doctor checks for abnormalities in the prostate.
Why it matters: The American Cancer Society states that when prostate cancer is detected early (while still localised), the 5-year survival rate is nearly 100%. Including this screening in men’s health routines gives men a better chance at early intervention and a full recovery.
Diabetes Screening: Managing a Growing Threat in Men's Health
Type 2 diabetes is increasingly common among men, particularly those over 35. The CDC reports that men are slightly more likely than women to have undiagnosed diabetes. This is concerning because untreated diabetes can lead to severe complications like kidney failure, vision loss, and nerve damage.
The A1C test is the most common screening for diabetes. It measures average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months. A reading of 5.7% to 6.4% indicates prediabetes, while 6.5% or higher suggests diabetes.
Risk factors include:
- Overweight or obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle
- High blood pressure
- Family history of diabetes
Men should begin regular men’s health diabetes screenings at age 35 and repeat them every three years, or more frequently if they have risk factors.
Why it matters: Early detection and intervention through dietary changes, exercise, and medication can prevent complications and improve quality of life.
Colorectal Cancer Screening: Early Detection Saves Lives in Men's Health
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in men, but it is also highly preventable and treatable with early screening. As part of routine men’s health maintenance, men should begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45, according to the American Cancer Society.
There are several types of colorectal screening tests:
- Colonoscopy: The gold standard, done every 10 years if no polyps are found.
- Stool-based tests: Such as the FIT (Faecal Immunochemical Test), recommended annually.
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: Performed every 5 years, though less comprehensive than colonoscopy.
Why it matters: Colorectal screenings can detect precancerous polyps before they develop into cancer. When caught in the early stages, the 5-year survival rate exceeds 90%.
Men’s health experts emphasise the importance of these screenings not just for cancer detection but also for prevention. Removing polyps can stop cancer from developing in the first place.
Staying proactive with regular health screenings is one of the most effective ways men can protect their long-term well-being. By prioritising these five essential checks, men can catch potential issues early, manage risk factors, and improve their quality of life.
It’s also important to recognise that men’s health isn’t limited to physical conditions. Mental health checks play a vital role in overall wellness, especially since men are statistically less likely to seek help for depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders. According to the World Health Organization, suicide rates among men remain significantly higher than women in most countries, highlighting the need for routine mental health evaluations and open conversations about emotional well-being.
Investing time in comprehensive men’s health screenings, physical, mental and even emotional, isn’t just about adding years to life; it’s about adding life to those years.
