Recommended Health Screening Tests for Men Over 40

he natural health researchers at Institute for Vibrant Living (IVL) have investigated the need for men over 40 to have certain health related check-ups. Here is their report:

40 is the Magic Number for Men

Preventative health screening is all about having regular check ups to find any signs of health problems before they happen.

Men over the age of 40 should have regular checkups with their health care provider even if they feel on top of the world, in order to screen for disease, assess the risk of any possible health issues, update vaccinations and monitor and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Here are some basic health screening tests which are recommended for 40+ men:



Physical Examination

Have a general health examination every 2-5 years. It should involve a check on height, weight and body mass index (BMI).

As part of a general health check a blood test will be taken for abnormal blood sugar levels and elevated triglyceride levels which may the first sign of kidney disease or atherosclerosis which can lead to a heart attack or stroke.

A urine sample may be required to check for diabetes mellitus, protein or blood in the urine.

As part of this physical exam, check your immunizations are up to date. You should have a tetanus-diphtheria booster vaccination every 10 years.

A shingles or herpes zoster vaccination may be given to those over the age of 60. Flu vaccinations should be received every winter for those aged 50+.

Blood Pressure Screening

Your blood pressure should be checked every two years, and more frequently if there is a history of blood pressure above normal (120/80). It is easy to monitor your own blood pressure by using machines provided at pharmacies and grocery stores.

Cholesterol Screening

This should be done every five years for men over the age of 34. If you have diabetes, heart disease or kidney problems you should be monitored more frequently.

Colon Screening

Men over the age of 50 should be screened for colectoral cancer and for African American men the recommended age to start is 45+. This test may be a stool test, a colonography or a double-contrast barium enema.

A colonoscopy is recommended every 10 years. This procedure involves preparatory fasting and drinking a cleansing solution. Under sedation the colon is then examined using a colonoscope to check for polyps or colon cancer.

Eye Exam

Eyes should be checked every two years even for those without any sight problems. These checks can pick up the early signs of glaucoma, a disease which robs people of their eyesight if left untreated, and the loss of sight cannot be reversed.

Prostate Exam

Screening for prostate cancer is most important in men aged 40+, particularly African American men and those with a family history of prostate cancer. A PSA blood test, with or without a rectal exam, is recommended by the American Cancer Society for men aged 40 plus.

Osteoporosis Screening

Osteoporosis is not just a women's complaint. Men with risk factors should also discuss having screening with their doctor.

If you have not seen a doctor in the last 2 years and are over 40+ perhaps your New Year resolution should be to make an appointment for a health screening test.

40 Isn't Over the Hill

It's easy to shine on when you're feeling good, but it only makes sense to stretch out a bit and make those appointments for these life saving exams!

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