It's normal to dismiss the need for regular health check-ups when one is in the pink of their health. However, it is important to conduct regular health check-ups. Medical check-ups help detect risk factors and early signs of any ailment so you can take the necessary precautions/medications and avoid a bigger concern later. On International Men's Day, let's emphasise the importance of regular health check-ups for men to help keep diseases at bay.
Benefits of regular health check-ups for men
Some key benefits of regular health check-ups for men are -
Detect health issues early :
Some medical conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart diseases, and certain cancers do not show any symptoms in the early stages. With regular check-ups, early signs of these conditions can be identified and successfully treated.
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Manage chronic conditions:
Regular health check-ups are beneficial for people with pre-existing conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes mellitus, or heart disease, as they can help manage the conditions and prevent complications.
Preventive care:
When risk factors are identified, you can take preventive measures like adopting a healthy lifestyle, vaccinations, and screenings to stay healthy.
Mental health care:
Along with physical ailments, early detection of mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and stress can help people overcome the symptoms and live fulfilling lives.
Quality of life:
When you take care of potential health issues, there is a reduced risk of developing chronic illnesses, thereby improving the quality of life as you age.
Common tests and screenings for men
Some common tests and screenings which must be done by all men for their overall health and well-being are -
Blood sugar:
With age, the risk of type 2 diabetes increases. Hence, after the age of 45, men must get tested for diabetes every three years. However, those who are at risk of developing diabetes due to family history, obesity, or high blood pressure must undergo tests earlier and more frequently. Early detection can help prevent or delay complications arising out of diabetes.
Blood pressure:
Detecting high blood pressure or hypertension early can help manage the condition with lifestyle modifications or medication. High blood pressure also increases the risk of cardiac ailments and heart attacks. It is, therefore, recommended that men aged 18-39 with normal blood pressure should get checked at least once every two years. Men above 40 years of age or with risk factors must be screened every year.
Cholesterol:
For men aged 20 and above, it is crucial to get tested for cholesterol every five years. However, people with risk factors such as diabetes, obesity, or a family history of heart disease must be tested frequently or as advised by the doctor.
Prostate cancer screening:
Prostate cancer is common among men. As men turn 50, they must discuss with their doctor about prostate cancer screening. If they are at risk of developing this form of carcinoma, they can undergo screenings from an earlier age.
Skin cancer screening:
If there's a family history of skin cancer or excessive exposure to the sun, it is important to have regular self-examinations or get checked by a skin specialist periodically.
Colorectal cancer screening:
This is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths. Hence, regular screenings for colorectal cancer must start at age 45-50, and the frequency of tests must be based on individual risk factors.
Vision and hearing tests:
Eyes must be tested every two years until age 60 and annually thereafter. Hearing tests must be conducted every 10 years until 50 years of age and then every three years.
Conclusion
Now that you know the advantages of regular health check-ups, ensure you get tested periodically for optimal health. In addition, keep health insurance plans handy to protect yourself financially during medical emergencies.