Going to the doctor for a yearly checkup is recommended for men and women of all ages. However, physicians know the majority of people aren’t as consistent. That’s why there are specific times that physicians make it a requirement for their patients to come in. Getting the right screening test done at the right time is one of the best things a man can do for his health. Below are screening guidelines for men, depending on their age.
Age 20
Starting at age 20, you should make sure you test for sexually transmitted infections (if applicable) with your TopLine MD Alliance affiliated primary care physician. Additionally, make sure you get in to see your dentist to maintain optimal oral hygiene. Every two years, ask for your physician to also check your eyes and blood pressure when going in for a physical wellness visit.
Age 34
In addition to your physical wellness visit and seeing your dentist, starting at age 34 it is important that you also have an EKG performed every three years and have your cholesterol tested every five years. EKG and cholesterol tests examine your cardiovascular and heart health to make sure that there are no underlying health risks or conditions.
Age 40
Once a man has turned 40 years old, there are a few health checks that he will need to optimize his wellness for years to come. The biggest screening is for diabetes, which starting at age 40, should now occur every three years. Having a BMI over 25 signifies that a person is overweight. If you are overweight, ask your TopLine MD Alliance affiliated provider if you should be screened at a younger age. If your blood pressure is above 130/80 mm Hg, or you have other risk factors for diabetes, your provider may test your blood sugar level for diabetes earlier, as well.
In addition to a diabetes screening, beginning to have an eye exam every two to four years is required. Your provider may recommend more frequent eye exams if you have vision problems or glaucoma risk.
Every three years, you should also ensure your TopLine MD Alliance affiliated primary care physician is screening you for diabetes, colorectal cancer, and hearing loss.
Age 50
At 50 years old, maintaining optimal health should continue to be a priority. Annual physicals will now include yearly prostate exams, as prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men. Plus, you should start receiving colonoscopies every 10 years once you turn 50 years old.
Age 60
Once a man turns 60 years old, all of the health screenings mentioned above may be tested even more frequently depending on health. An additional exam for osteoporosis will be added to the list, especially if you have any risk factors. These can include long-term steroid use, low body weight, smoking, heavy alcohol use, having a fracture after age 50, or a family history of osteoporosis.
These are just some key health screenings recommended for men at different phases of their lives. As always, refer to your TopLine MD Alliance affiliated primary care physician about what is best for you and your health.
For more information on men’s health screening guidelines, or to schedule your next annual wellness visit, find a TopLine MD Alliance provider today.
The TopLine MD Alliance is an association of independent physicians and medical practice groups who are committed to providing a higher standard of healthcare services. The members of the TopLine MD Alliance have no legal or financial relationship with one another. The TopLine MD Alliance brand has no formal corporate, financial or legal ties to any of the affiliated physicians or practice groups.
