Many men tend to neglect their health and skip important medical tests, thereby exposing themselves to several ailments.
To maintain good health requires regular medical tests, check-ups, and screenings for men and women.
A study shows men do not seek professional help until whatever ailment they are battling worsens, which isn’t right.
Below are the important medical tests you need as a man to maintain your health and live longer.
1. Prostate-specific antigen test (PSA)
PSA test is a blood test basically used to screen for prostate cancer.
During the test, the amount of PSA in the blood is measured. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a protein produced by both cancerous and noncancerous tissue in the prostate, a small gland that sits below the bladder in males.
PSA test helps to detect the level of PSA in the body. High PSA level can indicate prostate cancer.
Prostate cancer is quite common so having the PSA test can help detect it early so one can begin treatment on time.
According to the American Cancer Society, a man should start PSA screening at age 50.
However, men at high risk of developing prostate cancer should start at age 40-45.
2. Testicular exam
This exam is a check of the look and feel of your testicles, to see if there are lumps, bumps, or changes in size or shape that could be cancer or another problem.
Even though testicular cancer is not common, it has been recommended that men between the ages of 15 and 35 should self-examine their testicles once a month.
It also stated that this test is preferably done after a warm shower or bath when the scrotum is relaxed.
3. Blood pressure screening
Blood pressure screening should be an important part of your routine checkup.
High blood pressure is a common health problem that can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems.
This is why men have been advised to always have blood pressure screening every two years or more often depending on how high the risk is.
4. Diabetes screening
To control the risk of diabetes, having a blood test that checks your blood glucose (sugar) levels is important.
Adults without risk factors for diabetes have been recommended to be screened for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes starting at age 35 by American Diabetes Association (ADA).
5. Colorectal cancer screening
According to the American Cancer Society, men are more at risk of colon cancer. This is why a colonoscopy is one of the important medical tests you need to take as a man.
Colon cancer, also called colorectal cancer, is a growth of cells that forms in the lower end of the digestive tract. Most of these cancers start as non-cancerous growths called polyps.
Removing polyps can prevent cancer, which is why it has been recommended that from age 45, there should be regular screenings for cancer.
6. Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) test
As a man, if you are sexually active, getting tested for STDs is one of the most important things to do to protect your health.
Most STDs are treatable so it is best to screen regularly in order to detect them quickly.
Early detection of STDs helps to prevent the case from worsening or spreading to a partner.
So as a sexually active man, you should get tested at least once a year for syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. And more frequently if you have multiple partners.
Also, you should get tested for HIV at least once a year and once a year for hepatitis C, if living with HIV.
Speaking to a professional is, however, very important before taking steps on screening. They are the right person to state when and which screening is appropriate for you based on your age, current health condition, and family history.
