Men’s Health Month: Why Annual Checkups and Early Screenings Matter

The best thing men can do for their health this June? Make the appointment. 

Early detection saves lives. Men's Health Month is almost over. If there is one thing to take away, it is this: seeing a doctor regularly can protect your health in ways you may not expect. Many men skip the doctor unless something feels wrong. This month is a good reminder of why that habit is worth changing.

What to know:

• More than 40 percent of men only go to the doctor when they think something is seriously wrong, but many health problems have no symptoms at first.
• Conditions like heart disease and certain cancers are more common in men, but they can often be prevented or caught early with regular checkups.
• AZ Blue members have access to preventive care and annual wellness visits. Scheduling a yearly appointment with a primary care provider is one of the best things you can do for your health.

Why regular care matters

A study from the Cleveland Clinic found that almost  44% of men do not get an annual physical. More than half say they do not talk about their health at all.

Many serious conditions have no warning signs. High blood pressure is a good example. You may feel fine and still have it. If it goes untreated, it can lead to a heart attack or stroke. A primary care provider can catch things like this early, when they are easier to treat.

You do not have to feel sick to see a doctor. That is what preventive care is for.

Screenings to ask your doctor about

Catching a problem early can make a big difference. Here are three screenings worth bringing up at your next visit:

1. Cholesterol check. Men should start getting their cholesterol checked around age 35. If heart disease runs in your family, ask about starting sooner. High cholesterol can lead to heart disease and stroke.
2. Prostate cancer screening. Talk to your doctor about screening starting at age 50. If prostate cancer runs in your family, you may want to start earlier.
3. Colorectal cancer screening. A colonoscopy can find colon polyps before they become cancer. Men should start screening at age 45.

Not sure where to start? Just ask your doctor. They can help you decide which screenings make sense for you.

Take the next step

As Men's Health Month comes to a close, it is a good time to schedule that appointment you may have put off. Ask about your screening options. Take care of your health now so you can feel your best later.

Know a man who could use a reminder? A partner, a dad, a friend? Share this with them. A little encouragement can go a long way.