June is Men’s Health Month, a time to consider whether you’re doing what you need to stay healthy. In addition to eating right and exercising, men need to make sure they’re up-to-date on all their health screenings.
If you’re like many men, you hate going to the doctor, and you only go when you feel like you’re dying. But with many serious diseases, if you wait until you have symptoms, it may be too late
Here are a few of the screening tests we recommend to head off serious illnesses.
- Cholesterol test. This blood test helps alert you to heart attack and stroke risks by providing information about levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood. You should start having this test at age 35.
- Blood pressure check. High blood pressure raises your risk for heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. This simple test will let you know whether you need to change your lifestyle or take medications to lower your blood pressure.
- Prostate cancer tests. These include a digital rectal exam and for some men a prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood test. Screening should start at age 50 for men of average risk and age 40 for African American men and those with a family history of the disease. An elevated PSA can be a sign of prostate cancer, but it can also be caused by inflammation of the prostate or enlarged prostate. While not life-threatening, an enlarged prostate can cause problems. If you suspect you have an enlarged prostate, this simple online questionnairecan help you find out. Treatments are available now that can make a big difference in relieving enlarged prostate symptoms.
- Testicular cancer exam. This cancer shows up most often between ages 20 and 54. Your doctor should do this exam anytime you have a routine physical.
- Colon cancer screening. This is a really helpful test because it detects polyps, which can be removed before they become cancerous. It’s recommended for people 45 and older.
- Diabetes testing. If it’s not controlled, diabetes can damage your heart, your kidneys, and your vision. It can also cause nerve damage and impotence. A simple blood test can let you know if you have diabetes or prediabetes.
Your doctor may recommend other tests, depending on your risk factors. We know you’re busy, but make time this month to see your doctor. You may just have a longer life as a result.
Affiliated Urologists is an award-winning practice recognized both locally and nationally that has provided service to patients in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and surrounding communities in the Valley, for over 40 years. The physicians emphasize top-of-the-line comprehensive urological care and strive to deliver the highest outcomes for patient satisfaction. To make an appointment, call 602-264-0608 or click here.
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
