Annual Testing Men Should Consider
Everyone should have a regular medical exam each year to check up on their health and ensure there are no underlying issues. These annual exams are key to catching any major health problems early enough to treat them before they get out of hand. Both men and women have specific sets of exams they should receive. Men in particular should have a series of tests each year to potentially avoid certain issues specific to them. Here are some examples.
Prostate Screening
If you are an older male and have not yet had a prostate cancer screening, ask your doctor about getting this test. Prostate screening is a quick and easy test that can potentially be lifesaving. You should get this test if you have a family history of prostate cancer, are African American, or are over a certain age.
Testicular Screening
Testicular cancer can be caught early by a testicular exam. Your doctor will want to run this test particularly if you have a history of testicular cancer in your family. If you notice any abnormalities in your testicular area, you should also talk to your doctor about testing. Any skin discolorations, lumps, or bumps may indicate a need for the test. This does not mean you have cancer necessarily, but it is always best to have it checked out. An annual test at your yearly checkup is a great way to discover any issues early on and avoid bigger health issues.
Blood Pressure Screening
All people should have regular blood pressure screening. However, men in particular should keep a close eye on their blood pressure numbers. You may need more frequent blood pressure checks if you are diabetic, have issues with your kidneys, suffer from heart disease, or are overweight. Men also suffer from high blood pressure due to stress. High blood pressure can lead to heart attacks, heart failure, and a risk of stroke. Your doctor can prescribe medication along with other treatments to treat high blood pressure.
Cholesterol Screening
You should also be getting your cholesterol checked regularly to avoid coronary heart disease. Cholesterol can build up in the arteries and result in a heart attack or other heart-related health problems. Those who are overweight, diabetic, suffer from kidney issues, or have had major changes in diet and lifestyles should get their cholesterol checked annually. If you do not suffer from any of these issues, you still need to get your cholesterol levels checked. However, your doctor may elect to test you less frequently.
Reach out to a doctor's office near you for more information.
