Men over 40 will greatly benefit from an annual physical exam, especially if you haven’t been in the habit of yearly well checks. There are several important tests to be considered after this age. Your personal and family health history, ethnic background and even work environment can factor into when and how often these tests should be performed. Even if you feel fine, screenings such as these can help identify underlying issues that you may not be aware of.
Cancer Screenings
There are three basic cancer screenings with various levels of tests that men over 40 should discuss with their doctor. It is important to be prepared for your doctor visit with an accurate personal and family health history. This allows you and your doctor to create a schedule of health screenings that best suits you. All three of these cancers can be potentially life threatening. However, early detection can make for less invasive and more effective treatments.
Prostate Cancer
There are two ways your doctor will screen you for prostate cancer:
• A rectal exam to check for physical indications
• A blood PSA test (prostate-specific antigen)
Your doctor will discuss possible symptoms of prostate issues that can be caused by things other than cancer to determine the best course of action to maintain your prostate health and ensure your best quality of life. Prostate screenings typically begin at age 50 but certain individual risk factors, such as being an African American male, require testing to begin at age 45.
Colon Cancer
The typical schedule for colon cancer screening in men ages 50 and up is:
• A stool test performed every year
• Flexible scope test, known as sigmoidoscopy, every 5 years
• Colonoscopy every 10 years
• People with higher risk factors may need more frequent colonoscopies
Testicular Cancer
Screening for testicular cancer is fairly noninvasive. For the average individual, a basic external exam should be done yearly. Self-exams are recommended starting at age 15. However, after 40 your doctor will want to perform the exam as part of your yearly physical or as otherwise determined by your doctor as you plan your healthcare.
Maintaining Healthy Weight in Men Over 40
As men age, their weight plays an increasingly important role in their overall health. A person who is 40% overweight is twice as likely to die prematurely compared with a person of average weight. Your doctor will want to evaluate your weight and any underlying issues it may cause at your yearly physical. If your weight poses particular health risks your doctor may schedule other visits to continue working with you.
Excess weight can also lead to problems such as:
• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Diabetes
• Cancer
• Osteoarthritis
• Sleep apnea
• High blood pressure
• Gall bladder diseases and gall stones
• Gout
It is important to discuss with your doctor a nutrition and activity plan to help you lose weight if needed and to maintain a healthy weight as you age. Many problems caused by being overweight are reversible by following a healthy eating plan and an exercise routine. Always talk to your physician before beginning any exercise routine.
Protecting Your Health
It’s important to prioritize your health, especially as you age. Your physician will help you determine if your particular genetic make up, environmental factors, lifestyle or health history puts you at risk for health problems not listed here. Most men over 40 find they enjoy improved quality of life if they take extra steps to protect their health.
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