As part of #menshealthmonth, we are encouraging men to get their checkups and screenings. To help, we have created a guide for you to follow:
- Physical Exam – Review overall health status, perform a thorough physical exam, and discuss health related topics. (Every three years age 20-39, every two years 40-49 and every year for 50+)
- Blood Pressure – High blood pressure (hypertension) has no symptoms, but can cause permanent damage to body organs. (Should be done every year for all ages)
- TB Skin Test – A TB Skin Test Should be done on the occasion of exposure or suggestive symptoms at the direction of a physician. Some occupations may require more frequent testing for public health indications. (Every 5 years for all ages).
- Blood Tests & Urinalysis – screens for various illnesses and diseases (such as cholesterol, diabetes, kidney or thyroid dysfunction) before symptoms occur. (Every 3 years for 20-39, every 2 years for 40-49 and every year for 50+).
- EKG Electrocardiogram – screens for heart abnormalities. (Baseline for age 30, every 2 years 40-49 and every year for 50+).
- Tetanus Booster – prevents lockjaw. (Every 10 years for all ages).
- Rectal Exam – screens for hemorrhoids, lower rectal problems, colon and prostate cancer (see PSA Blood Test, below). (Every year for all ages).
- PSA Blood Test Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) – is produced by the prostate. Levels rise when there is an abnormality such as an infection, enlargement or cancer. Testing should be done in collaboration with your physician. (Every year for 50+).
- Hemoccult – screens the stool for microscopic amounts of blood that can be the first indication of polyps or colon cancer. (Every year for 40 – 50+).
- Colorectal Health – A flexible scope examines the rectum, sigmoid and descending colon for cancer at its earliest and treatable stages. It also detects polyps, which are benign growths that can progress to cancer if not found early. (Every 3 to 4 years for 50+).
- Chest X-Ray – should be considered in smokers over the age of 45. The usefulness of this test on a yearly basis is debatable due to poor cure rates of lung cancer. (Discuss with a physician 50+).
- Bone Health – is a mineral density test. Testing is best done under the supervision of your physician. (Discuss with a physician 60+)
- Self Exams – Testicle: To find lumps in their earliest stages. Skin: To look for signs of changing moles, freckles, or early skin cancer. Oral: To look for signs of cancerous lesions in the mouth. Breast: To find abnormal lumps in their earliest stages. (monthly by self for all ages)
- Testosterone Screening – low testosterone symptoms include low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, and depression. Initial screening for symptoms with a questionnaire followed by a simple blood test. (Discussion with a physician 40+).
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) – sexually active adults who consider themselves at risk for STDs should be screened for syphilis, chlamydia, HIV, and other diseases. (Under physician supervision for all ages).
To schedule a checkup today, call Internal Medicine Center at 251-414-5900.
