Men's Health Awareness: Preventive Screenings You Need

June is Men's Health Awareness Month, making it the perfect time for men to take stock of their health and prioritize getting the necessary preventive screenings. While nobody enjoys going to the doctor more than necessary, routine screenings are crucial for detecting issues early when they’re most treatable. 

Over 90 percent of the premature deaths among men from unintentional injuries, cardiovascular disease, and suicide could potentially be prevented. One-third of men (33 percent) don’t think they need annual health screenings, and almost two-thirds (65 percent) believe they are naturally healthier than others.

“Prevention is your strongest weapon against becoming a statistic,” says Dr. Ravi Ramaswami, a family care physician with Lee Health/Lee Physician Group. 

“Even if you’re feeling fine, visit your doctor for an annual wellness exam. The same holds true with getting annual preventive screenings for heart disease, depression, and cancers. By prioritizing these regular screenings, you invest in your future well-being because it’s not just about being healthy; it’s about staying healthy.”

So, don't be one of the statistics - take charge of your health by getting the following recommended preventive screenings:

Mental health screening

Taking care of yourself isn’t only physical—check in with your doctor about your mental and emotional health, too. It’s important because men are far less likely than women to be clinically diagnosed with depression. That’s because men are less likely to discuss or report symptoms associated with depression, according to the National Institutes of Health.

The toll of avoiding help has proved enormously tragic. Undiagnosed and untreated depression in men carries a substantially higher risk of substance abuse, violence, and suicide.

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention reports that in 2021, men died by suicide at a rate 3.88 times higher than women. Middle-aged and older men were at increased risk, with white males accounting for nearly 70 percent of all suicides that year.

But there’s hope and help. Depression and other mental illnesses are highly treatable when identified and when men are connected to appropriate support and care.

But it begins with having a talk with your doctor and/or reaching out to a mental health professional when the going gets rough mentally and emotionally. Early intervention, support, and open conversations around men's mental and emotional well-being can be life-saving endeavors.

If you've experienced any concerning behavioral changes, mood disturbances, or emotional difficulties, don't tough it out alone – reach out to an experienced, compassionate professional at Lee Health Behavioral Services at 239-343-9180.

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Blood pressure screening

High blood pressure or hypertension increases your risk for heart disease, stroke, and other serious conditions but rarely causes obvious symptoms initially. That's why getting your blood pressure checked regularly is so important, says Dr. Ramaswami.  

“Men should get screened for hypertension at least once per year if their levels are in the healthy range,” he says. “More frequent monitoring is needed if your levels are high or borderline high. If there’s a concern, your doctor can help you manage it and suggest lifestyle changes to help you stay healthier.” 

Cholesterol screening

High cholesterol leads to plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing heart attack and stroke risk. Like hypertension, high cholesterol often doesn't cause noticeable symptoms until significant cardiovascular issues arise. 

Get your cholesterol levels checked every 4-6 years if they’re in the healthy range, Dr. Ramaswami advises. Testing may be needed more often if your levels are elevated, or you have other cardiac risk factors.    

Colorectal cancer screening

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer and cause of cancer deaths in American men. The good news is it is highly preventable through routine screening. Men at average risk should begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45 via colonoscopy, stool tests, or other approved methods. Earlier and more frequent screening is recommended for those at higher risk.

Prostate cancer screening  

The goal of screening for prostate cancer is to find cancers that may be at high risk for spreading if not treated and to find them early before they spread, according to Dr. Joseph Klink, a board-certified urologic oncologist with Lee Health Cancer Institute. He says most prostate cancers develop slowly or not at all.

“Prostate cancer typically grows slowly, so many cases don't require immediate treatment and aren't life-threatening,” Dr. Klink says. “Prostate cancer can be serious, but most men diagnosed with it don’t die from prostate cancer. In fact, in the United States, there are more than 3.1 million men diagnosed with prostate cancer who are still alive today. The takeaway message is that the earlier prostate cancer is caught, the easier it can be contained.”

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While screening requirements vary, the American Cancer Society recommends men discuss the potential benefits and risks of PSA testing with their doctor starting at:

• Age 50 for men at average risk 
• Age 45 for men at high risk (African American/Black or with a close male relative diagnosed with prostate cancer)
• Age 40 for men at higher risk (more than one close relative diagnosed at an early age)

Diabetes screening

Men with obesity or other risk factors should get screened for diabetes every three years starting at age 45 if levels are normal. Those with high blood sugar readings indicating prediabetes may need more frequent screening.  

Lung cancer screening

Annual lung cancer screening is recommended for men ages 50-80 who are at high risk for lung cancer due to a history of chronic smoking. Early detection of lung cancer greatly improves treatment outcomes. Screening is done using a low-dose CT scan.

Skin cancer screening

While screening recommendations vary, men should regularly examine their skin for suspicious moles or growths. Report any concerns to their doctor immediately. Those at higher risk, such as outdoor workers or fair-skinned individuals, may benefit from periodic total-body skin exams by a dermatologist.

While this list covers some key preventative screenings for men, it's not exhaustive. Talk with your doctor about your risk factors and the most appropriate screening recommendations. The bottom line is being proactive about preventive care gives you the best chance at identifying issues early and enjoying better health at every age. 

Find a Lee Physician Group doctor here.