Taking care of your health is one of the most important things you can do at any age. Many men, however, tend to overlook routine health screenings that can identify potential issues early.
Men’s primary care doctors stress the importance of regular check-ups and screenings to ensure optimal well-being.
Here are the three most important screenings every man should consider. These tests are crucial for early detection and prevention of common health issues.
Why Routine Screenings Matter
Routine screenings play a vital role in identifying health risks before symptoms arise. Early detection can save lives by catching conditions like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes in their initial stages, making them easier to manage or treat.
A primary care doctor for men serves as your first line of defense, guiding you through proactive health measures to maintain a long and healthy life.
Blood Pressure Screening
Blood pressure screening is a simple but crucial test. High blood pressure, or hypertension, can lead to severe complications such as heart disease, stroke, or kidney damage.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that nearly one in three adults in the U.S. has high blood pressure, yet many do not know they have it.
What It Entails
Your men’s primary care doctor will use a cuff to measure the force of blood against the walls of your arteries. The test gives two readings:
- Systolic Pressure (upper number): Measures the pressure when your heart beats.
- Diastolic Pressure (lower number): Measures the pressure when your heart rests between beats.
Frequency of Screening
Men should start checking their blood pressure at least every 2 years, beginning at age 20, if they have normal readings. Annual checks are recommended for those with borderline or high readings.
Cholesterol Level Check
High cholesterol levels can significantly increase the risk of heart disease and stroke in men. Unfortunately, high cholesterol often has no symptoms.
What It Entails
During a cholesterol screening, also called a lipid profile, your doctor will take a blood sample to measure:
- Total cholesterol
- LDL (bad cholesterol)
- HDL (good cholesterol)
- Triglycerides
Frequency of Screening
If your cholesterol levels are normal, you should have this test every 4 to 6 years, starting at age 20. Men with risk factors, like a family history of heart disease, should be screened more frequently.
Colon Cancer Screening
Colon cancer is one of the leading cancer-related illnesses among men. Early detection can dramatically improve treatment success. The American Cancer Society recommends that all men undergo routine colon cancer screening starting at age 45.
What It Entails
There are several methods for colon cancer screening:
- Colonoscopy is the most comprehensive option. A men’s primary care doctor may refer you for this procedure, which involves inserting a long tube with a camera into the colon to detect abnormalities.
- Stool-based tests check for hidden blood or DNA changes linked to colon cancer.
- CT colonography is a non-invasive option that uses imaging to visualize the colon.
Frequency of Screening
If you opt for a colonoscopy, you should have it every 10 years if no abnormal findings are present. Stool-based tests should be done yearly.
Why Choose a Men’s Primary Care Doctor for Screenings
A men’s primary care doctor does more than address immediate health concerns. They provide preventative care that aligns with your individual health needs.
Men’s primary care doctors offer reassurance, expertise, and personalized recommendations to ensure you receive the tests and treatments you need.
Men’s Primary Care Doctor in Texas
Men’s primary care doctors emphasize how these simple tests can make a significant difference in maintaining your health. By regularly visiting a primary care doctor for adults, you can stay on top of potential health concerns and lead a healthier, longer life.
If you are ready to prioritize your health today, schedule an appointment with a men’s primary care doctor here at Palm Primary Care. At our primary care clinic, we are dedicated to helping men live their healthiest lives. From routine screenings to tailored health plans, our skilled physicians are here to support you.
In addition to regular check-ups, our primary care doctors can also provide guidance on preventative measures such as vaccinations, healthy lifestyle habits, and early detection of potential health concerns. We understand that taking care of your health may not be your top priority, which is why we strive to make the process as convenient and efficient as possible for you.
Furthermore, our primary care clinic offers telehealth appointments for non-emergency medical needs, allowing you to speak with a doctor from the comfort of your own home. This eliminates the need for travel time and wait times at a physical office.
To learn more about us or make an appointment with our primary care doctor for adults, call (866) 840-7728. You can also schedule a consultation with a primary care doctor for men by visiting our patient portal. We look forward to serving you!
