A Health Checkup for Men

BIDMC Contributor

AUGUST 04, 2020

Mens Health Checkup with Doctor

According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, men are far more likely to skip routine health screenings than women.

"There are a variety of reasons for which men are more likely than women to delay doctor visits until there is a serious health issue," says BIDMC urologist Robert Carrasquillo, MD, who specializes in men's reproductive and sexual health. "It is important for men to realize there is no shame in seeking help and protecting their health."

Many "small" health issues that men may choose to live with everyday are, in fact, very treatable. "Visiting your primary care physician regularly, whether that is virtually or in-person, and seeking specialist care when needed can alleviate stress and get you healthier and happier much more quickly," Carrasquillo says.

Symptoms like pain, sexual dysfunction or increased frequency of urination are those that you should seek care for right away. Read a story about two brothers with happy outcomes because they didn't ignore the warning signs of prostate cancer.

It's important to know that many men's health issues become more frequent as men age. Family history plays a big part in what a physician will focus on, but there are key issues and screenings that are age-specific for all patients.

Age Concerns & Screenings
20s
  • Safe sex counseling and screenings
  • Blood pressure
  • Cholesterol
30s
  • Nutrition counseling
  • Managing weight
  • Exercising more
  • Eye exams
40s
  • Discussions about Prostate cancer screening for men at high risk (African Americans or men with a family history of prostate cancer)
  • General skin exams
  • Discussions about colon cancer, depending on family history
50s
  • Prostate cancer screening
  • Colorectal cancer screening/colonoscopy
60s
70s+
  • Weakness and fractures
  • Keeping the mind fit
  • Maintaining a healthy diet
  • Diabetes screening
  • Sexual issues

The Division of Urology at BIDMC is now seeing patients via telehealth and in-person. Learn about the urology services offered and call 617-667-3739 to schedule your appointment.

Above content provided by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. For advice about your medical care, consult your doctor.
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