Essential Screenings for Men: Take Charge of Your Health at Every Age

Your health is one of your greatest assets, and routine screenings are key to maintaining it. For men, preventive care plays a powerful role in detecting potential issues early, managing chronic conditions, and living a longer, healthier life. Whether you’re in your 30s, 50s, or beyond, essential health checks can make a real difference.

At Crisp Regional Hospital, we’re here to help guide you through the screenings that matter most.

Why Screenings Matter

Men are often less likely than women to schedule regular checkups or seek early care for symptoms. But early detection saves lives, especially when it comes to conditions like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Screenings help catch warning signs before they become serious, often when they’re easiest to treat.

Must-Have Screenings for Men

1. Blood Pressure Check

High blood pressure (hypertension) is often called the “silent killer” because it typically has no symptoms. Left unmanaged, it can lead to heart attack, stroke, or kidney disease. Every man should have his blood pressure checked at least once a year—or more frequently if your doctor recommends it.

2. Cholesterol Test

High cholesterol increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. A simple blood test can check your levels. Most men should begin screening around age 35, or earlier if you have risk factors such as diabetes or a family history of heart disease.

3. Diabetes Screening

A fasting blood sugar test or A1C test helps detect diabetes or prediabetes. Men with high blood pressure, being overweight, or other risk factors should be screened regularly starting at age 35.

4. Colon Cancer Screening

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers among men, but it’s also one of the most preventable. Screening typically begins at age 45, and options may include a colonoscopy or stool-based test. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, talk to your doctor about starting earlier.

5. Prostate Cancer Screening

Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in men. Starting around age 50—or earlier if you’re at higher risk—talk with your healthcare provider about the pros and cons of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing.

6. Lung Cancer Screening

If you’re over 50 and have a history of heavy smoking, a low-dose CT scan may be recommended to detect lung cancer early—even before symptoms appear.

7. Skin Cancer Exam

Men are more likely to develop—and die from—melanoma than women. Routine skin checks, either self-exams or by a provider, help catch suspicious moles or lesions early.

8. Vision and Hearing Checks

Regular eye exams can detect cataracts, glaucoma, and other issues that become more common with age. Hearing tests are also important, especially after age 60, to catch age-related hearing loss.

9. Mental Health Screening

Mental health matters. Anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders are common in men and often go undiagnosed. Be honest with your provider about how you’re feeling emotionally. Screening tools and support are available.

Healthy Habits to Support Screening

• Exercise regularly to maintain cardiovascular health and support mental well-being.

• Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.

• Get enough sleep—at least 7 hours per night.

• Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol use.

• Stay connected socially and emotionally, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed.

Take the First Step

Taking control of your health begins with scheduling a simple checkup. At Crisp Regional Hospital, our providers are committed to supporting men’s health at every age. Whether you’re due for a screening or just have questions, we’re here to guide you with expert, compassionate care.

Don’t wait—protect your future today. Call Crisp Regional to schedule your annual checkup or screening appointment.