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Your guide to health checks for men
Regular check-ups, tests and scans can help you stay on top of your health and identify early signs of health problems. Depending on your age and lifestyle, there are certain tests you should do regularly.
General health check-ups
It’s important to have general health check-ups even if you feel healthy. This is because many diseases and conditions can take a long time to develop, and regular health check-ups can help to identify early signs.
A general health check-up is an assessment of your current state of health. Your general practitioner (GP) will usually perform the examination and you’ll need to make an appointment to get a health check. It’s best to see the same doctor each time you have a health check, that way you can build a relationship with them, and they can track your medical history.
At a health check-up your doctor can:
- check for current health issues
- assess your risk of developing issues in the future
- assess your lifestyle
- check if you need any vaccinations.
If you have a high risk of getting an illness or disease, your doctor may also be able to offer suggestions to help reduce your risk.
Skin cancer check
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. Yet there’s no formal skin checking program in Australia. Doctors advise that you should check your skin for any changes every three months. If you notice changes, you should make an appointment to see your doctor. Read more about how to check for signs of skin cancer at the Cancer Council. You can also choose to go to a skin cancer clinic or certain GPs to have a skin check.
SkinVision can help there! We've made the SkinVision digital skin health check app free for our members. Download the SkinVision app now and help keep your skin in check. Use promo code CBHS_aus1 for free access until 30 September 2024.
Heart health checks
You should have a heart health check at least once every 2 years once you're over 45, or once you're over 35 if you're Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander. Your GP will ask you questions about your lifestyle and family and perform a blood pressure check. You might also need a blood cholesterol test.
Weight check
Every two years, ask your doctor to check your BMI and waist measurements to see if you have a normal weight and waist circumference for your height and age. Being overweight is a significant risk factor for many health conditions, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes. If you’re at risk of being obese or have a health history of being overweight, you might have to check your BMI and waist measurements more often. Discuss with your trusted doctor how often to get checked.
Diabetes check
Depending on your risk level, you may need to get a fasting blood sugar test for diabetes every one to three years. You’re at risk for type 2 diabetes if you:
- are over 55
- have a family member with type 2 diabetes
- are from an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander background
- people of high-risk ethnicities including Pacific Islanders, Maori, Asian (including the Indian subcontinent, or of Chinese origin) Middle Eastern, North African or Southern European
- are not physically active
- being overweight, especially around the waist
You should have a diabetes test every year if you have pre-diabetes. Speak to your doctor about getting a diabetes check. If they think you should be tested, they can fill in a pathology request form which you can take to a collection centre to have the blood test.
Prostate check
If you’re over 50 or have a close relative who has had prostate cancer, you should discuss prostate cancer screening with your doctor. Your doctor may suggest an annual screening blood test. Depending on the results of the blood test and your medical history, your doctor may refer you to a specialist for further tests. You can find out at the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.
Bowel check
From the age of 50, men should undergo a faecal occult blood test (FOBT) every two years, this free screening is now available for younger people from age of 45. This can be done in the privacy of your own home using a bowel cancer screening test. Call 1800 627 701 to get yours or order your screening kit online here. Men at high risk of bowel cancer may need a colonoscopy every two years.
You should also see your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- bleeding from the rectum or any sign of blood after a bowel motion
- a recent and persistent change in bowel habits
- constipation or needing to go to the toilet more often
- abdominal pain, bloating or cramping
For a complete list of signs to watch out for, see bowel cancer symptoms at Healthdirect Australia.
Dental check-up
You should see a dentist for a check-up every 6 to 12 months. Depending on the condition of your teeth, your dentist may recommend more regular check-ups.
Testicle checks
From puberty onwards, check yourself regularly for any unusual thickenings or lumps in the testicles, at least once a month. If you notice anything strange, talk to your doctor as soon as possible.
STI screening
If you are sexually active, it’s a good idea to be tested for sexually transmitted infections every 6-12 months. You should get a test even if you don’t have any symptoms.
Vision and hearing tests
Men who don’t wear prescription glasses or contact lenses should have their eyes tested every two to three years, however you should have a test if you notice any changes to your vision. If you already wear glasses, you should have them tested annually.
Men over 60 should have their eyes tested yearly regardless, as eyesight deteriorates with age. Your doctor can test your vision and they can suggest you see an optometrist if needed. You can also go straight to an optometrist to have your vision checked.
If you’re often exposed to loud noises, you should have your hearing checked regularly. If you notice any of the following symptoms, you should also have your hearing checked:
- ringing sensations in the ears
- people complaining that you talk too loudly
- often having to ask people to repeat what they’re saying
- struggling to hear conversations
If you’re over 65, you should have yearly hearing tests. Your doctor can test your hearing or refer you to an audiologist.
Mental health check
If you’re experiencing symptoms such as feeling lonely, irritability and anger, unnecessary risk-taking, alcohol or drug abuse, or have any other mental health concerns, speak to your GP.
Pre-conception
If you're planning to start a family in the next 12 months, consult your doctor for a pre-conception health check. Your lifestyle and family history can impact your fertility and your baby's health. It's crucial to address any potential issues early. Use Your Fertility online pre-conception checklist to prepare for your doctor's visit. Your doctor will discuss necessary health changes and any required tests.
Bone density
Many people don't realise they have osteoporosis until a minor fall results in a fracture. As you age, bone density decreases, and factors like smoking, alcohol, and low physical activity increase the risk of a fracture. Health conditions like low vitamin D, hormone issues, and diabetes, or medications such as corticosteroids, can also weaken bones.
In your 50s, discuss bone density with your doctor annually. Over 60? Consider a DEXA scan to measure bone density. If you have low testosterone or have had fractures from minor falls, get tested earlier. Early diagnosis and treatment can slow bone loss.
Final Words
Family history or increased personal risk factors may change how often/early you may have to do these checkups. Always consult with a GP if you are uncertain or have been experiencing any symptoms. If the tests recommended are not self-checks, always request them from your doctor.
Sources
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/essential-screening-tests-for-men
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/diabetes-screening-tests
http://www.cancerscreening.gov.au/internet/screening/publishing.nsf/Content/bowel-screening-1
https://www.cancer.org.au/preventing-cancer/sun-protection/check-for-signs-of-skin-cancer.html
https://www.cancer.org.au/about-cancer/types-of-cancer/skin-cancer.html
https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/your-heart/know-your-risks/heart-health-check
https://www.healthymale.org.au/mens-health/prostate-cancer
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/hearing-tests
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/eye-tests
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/stis-screening-tests
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/bowel-cancer-symptoms
https://www.yourfertility.org.au/pre-conception-checklist-men
All information contained in this article is intended for general information purposes only. The information provided should not be relied upon as medical advice and does not supersede or replace a consultation with a suitably qualified healthcare professional.
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