Men's Guide To Health Tests and Screenings
Click here for Common Health Concerns for Men
Click here for Women's Guide to Health Tests
Blood Pressure
Purpose
To detect high blood pressure or hypertension - a risk factor for heart disease, strokes, and other problems.
Age
21 & over
How Often To Be Tested
Annually; more frequently if over 140/90 or as directed by doctor.
Colorectal Exams
Purpose
To screen for colorectal cancer, which is highly treatable with early detection.
Age
50 and older.
How Often To Be Tested
One of these schedules:
- Fecal Occult Blood Test annually; Flexible Sigmoidoscopy with Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) every 5 years.
- Colonoscopy and DRE every 10 years.
- Double-Contrast Barium Enema and DRE every 5-10 years.
For more information, see:
Screen for Life - National Colorectal Cancer Action Campaign
Cholesterol Test
Purpose
To check if cholesterol content of blood is too high - a major factor in heart disease.
Age
35 & over
How Often To Be Tested
Every 5 years or as directed by physician.
Click here to learn more about:
Fat and Cholesterol
Dental Exam
Purpose
To check for cavities, early signs of gum disease and other oral problems.
Age
18 & over
How Often To Be Tested
Every 6 months, or as directed by dentist.
Click here to learn more about:
Readiness and Dental Health
Electrocardiogram
Purpose
An electrical recording of the heart that can detect heart attacks and abnormal heart rhythms.
Age
18 & over
How Often To Be Tested
As directed by physician.
Eye Exam
Purpose
To check for problems including cataracts and glaucoma.
Age
18 & over
How Often To Be Tested
| 18-40 | As eye problems suspected or as directed by doctor |
| 40 | Baseline exam |
| 40-64 | Every 2-4 years |
| 65 & over | Every 1-2 years |
Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA)
Purpose
PSA blood test is used to detect prostate cancer, the most common cancer among males. Digital Rectal Exam recommended at the same time.
Age
50 & over
How Often To Be Tested
Annually (If family history of prostate cancer, and/or African American, consult doctor for advice about earlier screenings).
Click here to learn more about:
Prostate Cancer
Prostate Facts
Routine Physical Exam
Purpose
To maintain health and catch problems early. Should include professional skin cancer check (do skin cancer self-exams monthly).
Age
18 & over
How Often To Be Tested
Annually or as directed by doctor.
Testicular Exam
Purpose
Self-Exam: To check for painless lumps that could indicate testicular cancer.
Professional Exam: To check for testicular cancer.
Age
15 & over
How Often To Be Tested
Self-Exam: Monthly. Click on the link to learn how to perform a Testicular self-exam.
Professional Exam: When you have a complete physical exam or upon detection of lumps.
Tuberculosis Skin Test
Purpose
To detect presence of tuberculosis bacteria.
Age
18 & over
How Often To Be Tested
As directed by physician.
Click here to learn more about: Tuberculosis
Source: Men's Health - KY Cabinet for Health Services, June 26, 2003.
