By Jeff Tsai, M.S.
The timeless passage of a boy becoming a man has been celebrated with coming-of-age rituals throughout the world. Whether it’s a ceremonial tattoo, Bar Mitzvah, body-piercing, or sticking ones hand in a glove full of bullet ants, these rituals result in the declaration of manhood. Occasionally, the rituals will inflict great pain, though the participants involved willingly endure it to prove their worth. This attitude of reckless abandon about their physical health sometimes carries over into a man’s life as he gets older and can lead to disease and disability. Fortunately, there are preventive measures he can take to determine if he is on the right path to aging well.
Just as there are time-honored traditions to mark the age when a boy becomes a man, timely health checkups at important milestone ages can measure a man’s well-being and guide him toward healthful living. Listed below are recommended health screenings that men should consider across their lifespan:
Men in their 20’s-30’s:
- Physical Examination, Blood Tests, & Urinalysis: This includes performing a thorough physical exam, discussing diet and exercise habits, and symptoms of depression. The lab tests screen for various illnesses and diseases (such as cholesterol, diabetes, kidney, and thyroid function). These exams/tests should be performed every 3 years, increased to every 2 years for men in their 40’s, and performed annually for men aged 50+.
- Blood Pressure: Though hypertension may have no symptoms, it can cause permanent damage to body organs and increase risk for heart attacks and strokes. This should be measured annually for men of all ages.
- EKG: The electrocardiogram screens for heart abnormalities and it is recommended to get a baseline measurement at age 30, performed every 2 years in the 40’s, and annually for men aged 50+.
- TB Skin Test: This test should be done on occasion of exposure or suggestive symptoms at direction of a physician every 5 years for men of all ages.
- Tetanus Booster: This shot will prevent lockjaw and is recommended every 10 years for men of all ages.
- Rectal Exam: This exam screens for hemorrhoids, lower rectal problems, colon and prostate cancer and is recommended annually for men of all ages.
- Self Exams: Testicle: to find lumps in their earliest stages. Skin exams: to look for signs of changing moles, freckles, or early skin cancer. Oral exams: to look for signs of cancerous lesions in the mouth. Breast exams: to find abnormal lumps in their earliest stages. These exams should be self-performed monthly for men of all ages.
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): Sexually active men of all ages that are at risk for STDs should be screened under their physician’s supervision.
Men in their 40’s:
- Hemoccult: This test screens the stool for microscopic amounts of blood that can be the first indications of polyps or colon cancer and is recommended annually for men aged 40+.
- Testosterone Screening: Men that display symptoms of low testosterone, such as low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, fatigue and depression should discuss with their physician about this screening. Initial screening for symptoms is done with a questionnaire followed by a simple blood test.
- Chest X-Ray: This test should be considered by smokers over the age of 45 and discussed with a physician regarding the frequency of the test.
- PSA Blood Test: This test measures prostate abnormality due to an infection, enlargement, or cancer. A baseline test is recommended at age 40 and annual tests for men aged 50+.
Men in their 50’s:
- Colorectal Health: This exam involves a scope that examines the rectum and colon for cancer and polyps and is recommended every 3 years for men aged 50+.
Men in their 60’s:
- Bone Health: A bone mineral density test will indicate osteoporosis or other bone abnormalities. This test should be done based on the recommendation of your physician.
Reference(s):
http://getitchecked.com/
http://www.menshealthnetwork.org/
Heidelbaugh JJ, Tortorello M. The adult well male examination. American Family Physician. 2012 May 15;85(10):964-71.
About Jeff Tsai
A native of the Bay Area, Jeff Tsai received his Bachelors degree in Biochemistry from UC San Diego. After a short stint in the biotech field manufacturing life-saving drug products, he felt compelled to pursue graduate studies in order to interact more closely with those in need. He recently completed the Master’s of Science Program in Kinesiology: Exercise Physiology from SF State University. Prior to joining BaySport, he interned as a cardiopulmonary rehab specialist at Mills-Peninsula Hospital. Jeff enjoys running in 5K races, training in mixed martial arts, and playing in a competitive adult softball league.