June is Men’s Health Month, a time when healthcare professionals nationwide emphasize the importance of routine medical exams for men. Alarmingly, only about half of adult men get an annual physical, and a third do not see the need for regular health screenings.
“It’s easy to take our health for granted until a serious issue arises,” said Dr. Joshua Shultz of HCA Florida Lake Monroe Hospital in Sanford. “Regular checkups and screenings are key to catching potential problems early on when they are most treatable. Routine physicals can detect early-stage conditions such as heart disease, cancer, stroke, lung disease, and diabetes. We encourage all men to prioritize their health, not just during Men’s Health Month but year-round.”
Men under age 40 should have a wellness physical every two to five years, and annually for those aged 40 and older. Here are some essential screening recommendations for men to incorporate into their routine care:
Blood Pressure Check: Annual blood pressure checks are crucial. Untreated high blood pressure can lead to heart disease, stroke, and other serious conditions.
Cholesterol Levels: Monitoring cholesterol levels annually is essential for assessing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Men with risk factors such as smoking, diabetes, or a family history should have their cholesterol levels checked more frequently.
Diabetes Screening: The American Diabetes Association recommends annual screening for type 2 diabetes starting at age 45, or sooner for those with risk factors.
Prostate Screening: Starting at age 45, men should discuss with their doctor about getting a prostate-specific antigen blood test. Early detection of prostate cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
Colonoscopy: Regular colonoscopy screenings should begin at age 45, as recommended by the American College of Gastroenterology. These screenings help detect colon cancer and precancerous polyps. Colonoscopies are recommended every ten years, but men with a family history of colon cancer may need more frequent screenings.
Testicular Cancer Screening: Men in their late 20s should perform regular self-exams, checking for any unusual lumps, swelling, or pain. Unlike other cancers, testicular cancer is most common in men in their late 20s to early 30s, with an average diagnosis age of 33 years.
For more detailed information on men’s health screening recommendations, visit HCA Florida Healthcare.
Prioritize Your Health Today
Orlando-area doctors are urging men to take charge of their health by scheduling regular checkups and screenings. These preventive measures can make a significant difference in long-term health outcomes. Don’t wait for a health crisis—make your health a priority now.