It may not surprise you that men are less likely to have a primary care provider or seek routine health care. But regular screenings can save your life: They monitor changes in your health and find diseases early when they’re most treatable.
So, how much do you know about the tests men should get?
True or False
- Men ages 40 and older should get their blood pressure checked every year.
- Men should get tested for diabetes starting at age 45.
- Men should get a colonoscopy every year.
- Men should get tested for prostate cancer every year.
Check Your Answers
- True. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can result in stroke and heart failure. Avoiding salty foods and maintaining a healthy weight can help control high blood pressure.
- True. Starting at age 45, you should get your blood sugar tested every three years if your results are normal. Early detection and treatment of diabetes can decrease the chance of complications like heart disease, stroke and blindness. However, if you’re overweight or obese, you should start getting tested at age 35.
- False. Based on your risk factors and family history, you may need to begin colorectal screenings at age 45 or 50. Talk to your doctor about when it might be time for a colonoscopy, and visit GetScreenedToday.com to learn more about our care and services. Men at average risk for developing colorectal cancer need a colonoscopy every 10 years.
- False. Starting at age 50 or 55, men should discuss the advantages and limitations of prostate cancer screenings with their doctor.
Talk with your doctor about which tests you should get and how often to get them. You may need to get tested sooner or more often if you are at high risk for certain diseases.
The Importance of Having a Primary Care Provider
We know life can get busy, but having a trusted primary care provider (PCP) is worth it. However, many benefits come with having a PCP. Seeing the same doctor every time you get sick or need non-emergency help allows them to keep a pulse on your overall health. This will enable them to understand your needs better and provide the whole-person care you deserve.
Regular checkups with your PCP can help you avoid preventable illnesses and help catch potentially serious health risks early on. Practicing small amounts of preventive care goes a long way and benefits your health for years. Also, visiting your PCP is much more affordable than emergency care. So, the next time you feel you might be getting sick, we encourage you to find a PCP near you and embark on your wholeness journey.
Your Health Support System
Maintaining a relationship with a primary care provider you trust and can be open and honest with will help you maintain your long-term health. Talk to your doctor about when it might be time for a colonoscopy, and visit us here to learn more about our care and services. You deserve to feel whole.
