Men’s health doesn’t take a break, and neither should preventative care. At Clay-Battelle Health Services Association (CBHSA), we know that prevention is the best medicine. Regular checkups and screenings can help detect health issues early, when they’re most treatable. Whether you’re coming in for your yearly exam or haven’t been in for a while, now is the perfect time to schedule an appointment and make your health a priority.
Here are five screenings every man should consider, and how CBHSA can help make them simple and stress-free
1. Diabetes, Cholesterol, and Blood Pressure Checks
Why it matters: While not cancer-related, these screenings are essential for long-term health. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes often have no symptoms, but can lead to life-threatening issues like heart disease, stroke, or kidney damage if untreated.
When to screen: You should have your health provider test for these at least once a year, but you may need to test more often if you have risk factors like obesity, family history, or other conditions.
2. Colorectal (Colon) Cancer Screening
Why it matters: Colorectal cancer is the 4th most common cancer in the US and the leading cause of death in men under 50, but it’s also one of the most preventable. Screenings can find precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer.
When to screen: If you’re between 50 and 75 years old, the CDC recommends getting tested, but you may want to test sooner if you have significant risk factors. Speak with your doctor to determine when and which test may be best for you. Depending on the test, you may screen yearly with a stool test or every 10 years with a colonoscopy.
3. Prostate Cancer Screening
Why it matters: About 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, but every man’s risk may increase due to several risk factors, including age, race/ethnicity, and other factors. Regardless, prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer in men after skin cancer.
When to screen: Talk to your doctor about whether a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test or digital rectal exam (DRE) is right for you. Men with a family history or higher risk factors may need to start earlier.
4. Lung Cancer Screening
Why it matters: Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide. About 1 in 16 men will be diagnosed with lung cancer in their lifetime. Several factors contribute to the likelihood of developing this disease, but early detection can significantly improve survival rates.
When to screen: If you’re 55 to 80 years old and currently smoke or quit within the last 15 years, ask about a low-dose CT scan once a year
5. Skin Cancer Screening
Why it matters: Men over 50 are more likely than women to develop skin cancer, especially those who spend a lot of time outdoors for work or recreation. Having more than just five sunburns in your lifetime doubles your risk for developing melanoma.
When to screen: Talk to your provider during your yearly exam about a full-body skin check, particularly if you notice new or changing moles or spots.
How We Can Help
At Clay-Battelle Health Services Association, we’re committed to making healthcare easier and more personal. Our team provides:
- Annual wellness exams that include preventive screenings and lab work.
- Referrals and follow-ups for specialized testing, like colonoscopies or imaging scans.
- Health education and lifestyle guidance to help you understand your results and take the next step.
- Support for every stage of life, with compassionate providers who take time to listen and care.
Whether you’re due for a screening or simply want to learn more, we’re here to help you stay on top of your health.
To learn more or get in touch, please visit our Contact Us page. We look forward to hearing from you!