June Celebrates National Men’s Health Month
You likely ensure that your vehicle gets regular maintenance, oil changes, and a weekly wash. However, do you prioritize your own health in the same way?
“Fathers often become so preoccupied with their children that they neglect their own health,” notes Dr. Gregory Moran from Family Medicine Associates of Texas in Carrollton. “The chaos of our everyday lives and work commitments frequently hampers our ability to pursue regular health check-ups, which are essential for minimizing the risk of illness and disease. Sadly, many health issues are significantly advanced by the time they manifest symptoms.”
Consult your physician to ascertain which examinations are necessary and how frequently they should be conducted. Generally, the following health assessments can help ensure you remain in optimal condition.
In Your 30s
- Annual comprehensive physical examination by your primary healthcare provider, including blood pressure assessment.
- Monthly self-exams for testicular cancer screening.
- Cholesterol levels tested every five years.
- Depending on personal health factors, your doctor might conduct an electrocardiogram to assess heart health and blood tests to check for diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, liver issues, and anemia.
- Screening for skin cancer, oral cancer, STDs, and alcohol use might also be recommended based on your risk profile.
- Routine vision assessment.
- Screening for coronary heart disease if there’s a strong family history or specific risk factors.
In Your 40s
In addition to the above checks:
- Prostate cancer screening is advised.
- Diabetes screening every three years if you’re over 45.
In Your 50s
All previous screenings, plus:
- Annual screening for Type 2 diabetes.
- Assessment for lipid disorders.
- Hearing evaluation.
- Depression screening.
- Colon cancer screening via fecal occult blood test, sigmoidoscopy, or colonoscopy beginning at age 50.
- Yearly electrocardiogram.
- Your doctor may also advocate screening for lung cancer based on risk factors.
In Your 60s
Including all the previously mentioned tests, plus:
- Consult your physician about screenings for coronary heart disease, abdominal aortic aneurysm, and carotid artery ultrasound.
- Osteoporosis screening.
- Ongoing colorectal screenings based on earlier findings.
- Screening for dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
