Essential Screening Tests for Men’s Health

At Sunny Health DPC, we believe that preventive care is one of the most powerful tools in protecting long-term health. For men, certain screenings play a critical role in detecting conditions early, before they become serious. Here are the key screening tests men should know about:

1. Blood Pressure & Heart Health

• Blood pressure checks: At least once a year.

• Cholesterol and lipid panel: Starting around age 20, then every 4–6 years, or more often if risk factors are present.

• Diabetes (blood glucose or A1C test): Starting at age 35 and repeated every 3 years, earlier if overweight or at high risk.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in men, making these checks vital.

2. Colorectal Cancer Screening

• Colonoscopy or stool-based test: Starting at age 45 for average-risk men.

• Frequency depends on test type and results, but early detection greatly improves outcomes.

3. Prostate Health

• PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test: May be offered starting at age 50, or earlier for men at higher risk (African American men or those with a family history of prostate cancer).

Decisions about prostate screening should be made with your physician, weighing risks and benefits.

4. Lung Cancer Screening

• Low-dose CT scan: Recommended for men aged 50–80 with a history of heavy smoking, even if they quit within the past 15 years.

5. Bone Health

• Bone density (DEXA scan): Especially for men over 70, or earlier if risk factors such as long-term steroid use, low testosterone, or fracture history are present.

6. Sexual & Reproductive Health

• STI screenings: For sexually active men, including HIV, syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea.

• Testicular exams: Men should be familiar with their own anatomy and report changes (lumps, swelling, pain).

7. Mental Health & Lifestyle Screening

• Men often delay seeking care for mental health, but depression, anxiety, and stress management are just as important as physical health.

• Preventive counseling on nutrition, exercise, sleep, and substance use can help lower long-term risks.

Takeaway

Screenings are not just about checking boxes, they’re about staying ahead of preventable or treatable conditions. At Sunny Health DPC, we work with men of all ages to build personalized screening plans that fit their health goals and life stage.

Taking charge of your health today means more strength, energy, and resilience for the years ahead.