When a man gets into his late 30s and beyond, it is important to keep a close watch on several health problems specific to men. A man's health checklist includes conditions and issues that stretch beyond blood pressure, cholesterol, and other standard tests common for both genders.
Here's the health checklist for you:
- Belly fat check: Men are more likely than women to carry fat around their mid sections. Belly fat is more dangerous than fat in the hips and thighs because it settles around your organs, increasing the risk for conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and stroke.
- Prostate Screening: The prostate gland is a walnut-sized gland that is part of a man's reproductive system. Annual screenings are recommended after age 40. A doctor performs a rectal exam to feel if the prostate is enlarged. A blood test called prostate-specific antigen (PSA) can also be done. Levels will rise if your prostate is enlarged or if cancer is present.
- Self-Exams: Checking the testicles on a monthly basis is important for men of all ages. Gently roll the skin of the scrotum around the testicles with the thumb and fingertips. Report any bumps, lumps or areas of tenderness to the doctor.
- Testosterone Levels: Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone. As a man grows older, the testosterone levels begin to drop. Low levels are associated with reduced sex drive, fatigue, erectile dysfunction and depression. If one suffers from any symptoms of low testosterone, a doctor can do a screening.
- Lifestyle Choices: Although not exclusive to men, ensuring that the lifestyle is conducive to good health is an essential element of a man's health checklist. Smoking, drinking too much alcohol and eating a diet high in fat and sugar are habits one can modify to reach optimum health. Quit smoking, change the diet and include a routine exercise regimen.
Choose from the following available health checks according to your lifestyle, age and health condition:
