Preventative care is the most effective way to avoid a range of serious diseases and health conditions. In addition to eating a balanced diet and getting daily exercise, every man should get regular health screenings to look for signs of illness such as cancer and heart disease. Fairview Clinic in Dothan, AL, offers primary medical care services such as vaccinations, diabetes treatment, and in-house laboratory testing. These primary physicians recommend the following annual health screenings for men of all ages as part of a healthy lifestyle.

5 Health Screenings Every Man Should Get

1. Cholesterol 

If you have any risk factors for high cholesterol, such as smoking, a family history of heart attack or stroke, or a BMI over 30, you should have your cholesterol checked starting at 20 years of age, and every five years after that.

2. Blood Pressure

High blood pressure can lead to heart disease, kidney disease, and stroke. You may also be at risk for high blood pressure if you are overweight or smoke. Your primary physician will check your blood pressure at your yearly physical. 

3. Diabetes

In addition to the conditions described above, high blood pressure may also put you at risk for diabetes. Other risk factors include being overweight or leading a sedentary lifestyle. A round of blood tests will usually determine if your blood glucose level is high enough to merit a diabetes diagnosis.

4. Colon Cancer

Every man should have a colonoscopy to screen for colorectal cancer by age 50. Screening for colon cancer allows doctors to detect signs of colon cancer early, removing precancerous growths before they spread. Most men only need to undergo a colonoscopy once every 10 years.

5. Melanoma

More men are diagnosed with melanoma after the age of 65, so it’s important to start screenings around 50. If you notice any abnormal moles at any age, you should get them checked right away.

Regular health screenings by your primary physician are the best way to detect and treat serious health conditions, so you stay healthier longer. The physicians at Fairview Clinic are committed to providing their patients with the best preventative care and treatment. Call (334) 794-3192 to schedule your appointment, and visit their website to find important patient forms.