A proactive approach to health may prevent serious problems or minimize their severity. Following a schedule of recommended health screenings may allow early detection or prevention of common health concerns for men.
Self Examinations
Men should perform monthly self-examinations for breast and testicular lumps, as well as skin lesions or changes in moles or freckles.
Routine Physical Examinations
Beginning at age 18, men should have a routine physical exam every three to five years. Men between 40 and 49 should have an exam every one to two years. Men aged 50 or older should have an annual exam. Among other tests, this should include checks for testicular cancer, blood pressure screenings, weight and body mass index.
Cancer Screenings
Beginning at age 18, doctors should screen men for skin cancers every three years. Starting at age 50, they should have fecal occult blood tests for colon cancer and digital rectal exams and PSA exams for prostate cancer annually.
Cardiovascular Screenings
Men aged 18 or older should have their blood pressure checked at every clinical visit, or at least once every one to two years. They should also have a cholesterol blood test every five years. Men should establish a baseline electrocardiogram test at age 30; from ages 40 to 50, repeat the test every four years, and repeat it every three years after age 50.
Other Screenings
Beginning at age 45, men should have diabetes screening tests every three years. Men should get an eye exam, including a glaucoma test, every two years, beginning at age 18. From age 18 to 49, men should get a hearing test every 10 years; after age 50, check every three years.
Men aged 65 and over, who have ever smoked, should have one abdominal aorta aneurysm screening.
Anyone at high risk for sexually transmitted disease or HIV should consult his health care provider for a schedule of screening exams.
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