It’s important to schedule a yearly physical, but do you know what health exams are right for you? Your healthcare needs are based on factors including your family history, your current health, and your age. Below is a list of, and information on, common health screenings.
STD Screening
Being responsible for your health means knowing your status, regardless of your age. Get tested if you are sexually active. Check with your doctor, your local health department, or organizations like AIDS Healthcare Foundation for free or low-cost testing. Your insurance may cover HIV testing during your annual physical.
Colorectal Screening
A colorectal screening is preformed to detect colon cancer. Early detection can lead to early treatment if cancer is found.
Osteoporosis Screening
A bone density exam detects osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to become weak and brittle. While many women get osteoporosis because of hormonal changes, men are also susceptible to the disease as they get older.
Prostate Cancer Screening
A prostate specific antigen (PSA) test measures the level of PSA in your blood. What is PSA? PSA is a substance made by the prostate, and having a high level of it in your system may indicate cancer or another issue with your prostate.
Testicular Screening
A lump on, or swelling of, the testicle is often the first sign of testicular cancer. Some doctors recommend self-screening where you look for any abnormalities (lump, swelling, or change in shape). Your doctor can screen you for this.
Lung Cancer Screening
If you have a history of heavy smoking, have quit within the past 15 years, and are 55 – 80 years old, you should be screened for lung cancer. Screening involves X-ray imaging.
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening
An abdominal aortic aneurysm screening detects if there is an enlargement in the lower part of your aorta. The aorta isn’t just a blood vessel in your heart. It runs down to your abdomen supplying your body with blood. Men ages 65 – 75 who are or were smokers should be examined once.
Speak with your doctor about your healthcare needs.
Sources:
Medline Plus. (2020). Health screenings for men ages 18 to 39. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007464.htm
Medline Plus. (2020). Health screenings for men ages 40 to 64. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007465.htm
Medline Plus. (2020). Health screenings for men over age 65. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007466.htm
The World of Public Health 