Men need to be on the lookout for some of the common diseases and health conditions they are at risk for, such as prostate cancer and heart disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in men (and women) in the United States, while prostate cancer is the second leading cause of death in men in the United States. 

Importance of Routine Screenings

The key to preventing illness and disease is through routine preventive screening. It’s important for men, and people in general, to know and keep track of their health numbers. By familiarizing yourself with the recommended preventive screening guidelines, you can discuss with your doctor which tests to have, when, and how often. During annual checkups, your doctor should always check these four things: blood sugar, cholesterol, weight, and blood pressure. 

Men's Screening Health Guide

Here are some of the most important screening tests men should have as recommended by the American Cancer Society, U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, and the American Heart Association:

1. Blood pressure. 

a. High blood pressure usually has no symptoms and cannot be detected unless tested for. High blood pressure significantly increases your risk of heart disease and stroke.

b. If your blood pressure is below 120/80 mmHg, get checked at least once every 2 years starting at age 20. 

c. If your blood pressure is higher than 120/80 mmHg, get it checked more often. 

2. Cholesterol/heart disease. 

a. Get your lipid panel checked every 4-6 years for normal-risk people, starting at age 20.

b. Get checked more often if you have a higher risk for heart disease and stroke.

3. Diabetes. 

a. Get your blood glucose checked at least every 3 years starting at age 45.

4. Colorectal cancer. 

a. Most people should get their firs colonoscopy at age 50, followed by every 10 years, usually until the age of 75.

5. Prostate cancer. 

a. All men should get a baseline PSA test and a digital rectal exam starting at age 40, followed by once a year.

b. African-American men have a higher risk for prostate cancer and often have more aggressive disease. 

6. Testicular cancer. 

a. USPSTF does not recommend routine testicular cancer screenings. 

b. ACS recommends that men have testicular exams during annual physical exam. Discuss with doctor. 

To see additional recommended screening tests, visit USPSTF, ACS, or AHA.