12 Focus Your Health Age Recommended tests 18 BLOOD PRESSURE. Be screened every 3 to 5 years; every year starting at age 40. 20 CHOLESTEROL. Be screened every 4 to 6 years; more often if at high risk of heart attack or stroke. 45 COLORECTAL CANCER. Talk with your doctor about screening options. DIABETES. Be screened at least every 3 years (or start earlier based on risk factors). 50 LUNG CANCER. Be screened yearly based on your history of smoking. 55 PROSTATE CANCER. Ask your doctor about screening. 65 ABDOMINAL AORTIC ANEURYSM. Be screened once between ages 65 and 75 if you’ve ever smoked. MEN WHEN TO START KEY SCREENINGS Men’s health happens year-round! You are busy taking care of things—but don’t forget to take care of yourself! It’s not just about feeling your best—although that’s a great reason to do it. Taking care of your health can also help ensure that you’ll be around in the future to take care of your loved ones. Whether that’s a parent, a partner or a child, being there for them matters. It’s never too late to make your health a priority. Here are six smart things men can do now: 1. Schedule a checkup. You don’t need to be sick to visit your doctor. A checkup gives you a chance to learn more about your health and what steps you should be taking. You can also get advice about topics like fitness, alcohol, smoking and sexual health. 2. Say yes to screening tests. Screenings look for signs of serious diseases, like cancer and heart disease, before symptoms appear. That’s usually when they are easiest to treat. Your doctor can tell you what tests are best for you. 3. Get your shots. Adults need vaccines for things like tetanus, shingles and the flu. Staying up-to-date can help keep you from getting sick. 4. Quit risky habits. Ask your doctor for help quitting smoking, drinking or using drugs. It’s not a matter of willpower. There are treatments that can help. 5. Step on the scale. Eating well and staying active can help you manage your weight. And that, in turn, can help lower your risk for problems like diabe- tes and heart disease. 6. Manage your mental health. If you feel stressed, anxious or depressed, tell your doctor about it. There’s no shame in asking for help— and treatment works. Sources: American Academy of Family Physicians; U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Sources: American Cancer Society; American Diabetes Association; American Heart Association; U.S. Preventive Services Task Force Need a doctor? Search for a provider at hpsj.com or call 888.936.PLAN (7526). These recommendations are for most men. Talk with your doctor about what’s right for you.
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