It’s No-Shave November, also known as “Movember”, a time each year when many men put the razor away for a month in an effort to increase awareness and start conversations about men’s health issues. So, let’s start the conversation!
According to Men’s Health Network, women are 100 percent more likely to visit a doctor for annual exams than men. Sure, guys generally prefer to avoid going to the doctor. However, by failing to get routine check-ups or preventive care and ignoring problematic symptoms, a body can deteriorate, increasing health risks and making life less enjoyable.
When it comes to determining which exams you need, there are varying suggestions from different professional health care organizations. It is important that you consult your primary care physician to determine what is most appropriate specifically for you based on your current health status, your family health history and other factors your doctor considers significant.
Below is a list of the general recommended screenings and immunizations for men:
- General wellness exam: Every 1-3 years for ages 19-49 depending on your personal risk factors; annually after age 49
- Colon cancer screening (colonoscopy): Begin by age 50, then every 10 years
- Prostate cancer screening discussion: How and when to screen for prostate cancer remains controversial. Talk to your health care provider about individualizing a plan for your needs.
- Testicular exam: Include as part of each general wellness exam
- Blood pressure: Annually for men age 40 & older and for those who are at an increased risk for high blood pressure
- Cholesterol: Begin at age 35 for men, then every 5 years if normal
- Diabetes: Begin at 45, then every three years
- HIV screening: Based on risk factors
- Glaucoma: Begin at age 40, then periodically per your eye doctor’s recommendation. There is an increased importance for those with a recent family history of glaucoma and those of African American or Hispanic origins
- Lung Cancer screening guidelines:
o Is a current or former smoker, and
o Is in the age group of 55 to 80 years, and
o Has a smoking history of at least 30 pack-years (i.e., one pack per day for 30 years, two packs per day for 15 years, etc.)
This list is not considered to be comprehensive list so be sure to check with a physician for additional recommendations.
If you aren’t up-to-date on your regular check-ups and routine screenings, now is a great time to get there! To get started, call 918.579.DOCS (3627) or click here to request an appointment.