Recommended Health Screening Tests for Men by Age

Making time for routine checkups and health screenings is a key step every man can take to maintain good health. Plus, some health screenings can help identify certain diseases in the early stages when they're easier to treat. But which tests should you take and when should you schedule them?

Below are some important men's health screenings, medical tests and vaccinations that adult men in their 20s to their 60s and beyond may want to consider. Keep in mind that health screenings may vary in their suggested frequency and timing based on your family history, lifestyle factors and any new symptoms that develop. Be sure to talk with your healthcare provider to determine which health screenings are right for you — and when to do them.

Health Screenings for Men in Their 20s and 30s

This stage of life is an ideal time to develop an ongoing relationship with a primary care physician. Having a trusted health professional who is familiar with your health history — and who you can talk to about any health concerns — can make it easier to stay on top of preventive screenings. Health screenings for men at this life stage focus mainly on biometric screenings and early detection of preventable diseases.¹

Here are the health screenings you may want to consider in your 20s and 30s:

Blood pressure

Blood pressure screenings can identify high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, which is a condition that can lead to heart disease and strokes.

How often: Blood pressure should be checked every two years for most. If your numbers are higher than average, your healthcare provider may suggest an annual screening. ²

Cholesterol

Cholesterol screenings can identify plaque in your arteries, another condition that can lead to heart disease.

How often: Cholesterol screenings are recommended starting at 35 for men with no heart disease risk factors and if the test is normal, repeated every five years. Men who do have risk factors for heart disease are recommended to test starting at 20 years old and may benefit from an annual screening.²

Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes screening involves fasting for about eight hours to test your blood sugar level for diabetes or even prediabetes.

How often: While diabetes testing usually is recommended for individuals 45 years and over, your healthcare practitioner may recommend getting tested in your 30s if you are overweight or physically inactive, have high blood pressure or high cholesterol or have family history of diabetes — as these are risk factors for the disease.³

Vaccinations

Vaccines are an easy and convenient way to protect yourself against various common and communicable diseases. A few to consider are the COVID-19 vaccine, a flu shot and a tetanus booster.

How often: Flu vaccines are recommended annually while a tetanus booster should be updated every 10 years.⁴

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)

Testing for sexually transmitted diseases (STD) such as syphilis, chlamydia and gonorrhea can help prevent you from spreading the disease to other sexual partners.

How often: If you are sexually active, annual testing is recommended for STDs. ²

Skin cancer check

While skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States,⁵ skin cancer screenings can easily be performed in the comfort of your own home with good lights and a mirror.⁶ Following the American Cancer Society skin check guidelines can help you become aware of your own personal pattern of moles, freckles and blemishes so you can know if and when they change.

How often: Although there are no set guidelines from the American Cancer Society, many practitioners recommend doing monthly skin checks — especially for those at higher risk. Scheduling an annual full-body skin cancer check with your dermatologist is also a good way to help learn how to perform a skin check and have a professional document and identify any skin changes or new growths in the early stages.⁶

Dental exam

During a dental exam, a dentist or dental hygienist will examine your teeth, cheeks, tongue and gums for decay, disease, cancer or other oral health concerns.⁷

How often: Unless you have specific oral issues, most adults will benefit from biannual (twice-a-year) dental exams to keep teeth and gums healthy and check for oral cancer.²

Eye exam

An eye exam consists of various tests to check the health of your eyes and your vision.

How often: Between the ages of 20 and 39, an eye exam should be completed every five to 10 years or more frequently if you notice a change in your vision, have contact lenses or have been diagnosed with certain eye conditions that may warrant more frequent screenings.⁸

Health Screenings for Men in Their 40s and 50s

Risk factors for conditions like heart disease and diabetes may increase during this age stage. Some men may notice an increase in blood pressure and weight gain, as well as a lower metabolism. This is an important stage of life to focus on heart health, which includes paying close attention to diet, exercise and maintaining a healthy weight.

Men in their 40s and 50s may want to consider all of the health screenings mentioned earlier, as well as the following health screenings:

Colon cancer screenings

Starting at age 45, men should be screened for colon cancer through a stool test, sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy. These tests can provide early detection of colon cancer to allow for faster treatment. Although colonoscopies are considered the gold standard for testing, the procedure itself isn't always convenient or pleasant. Ask your doctor about getting prescribed an at-home colon cancer screening option that can make it easier — and more likely — that you'll test.¹

How often: The frequency of testing depends on the screening method used. Stool tests should be performed annually, sigmoidoscopy every five years or a colonoscopy every 10 years. You also may need to test more frequently if you have risk factors or a family history of colon cancer.⁹

Lung cancer screening

Individuals who are over the age of 50, have a history of smoking 20 packs or more a year and still currently smoke or have quit in the last 15 years, should be screened for lung cancer. ⁹

How often: An annual screening is recommended for those who meet all three criteria.⁹

Bone density screening

Bone density screenings measure bone strength and can detect osteoporosis before breaks happen — and even predict the risk of future breaks. ¹⁰

How often: If you are over the age of 50 and have risk factors for osteoporosis, talk with your healthcare provider about getting a bone density screening. Heavy alcohol use, smoking, steroid use, low body weight and family history play a key role in determining when testing is recommended.⁹

Prostate cancer screening

Although prostate cancer is the second most common cancer for men, according to the American Cancer Society, there is debate if the benefits of performing prostate cancer screenings override the risks.¹¹ Screenings can be inconclusive which can lead to an incorrect diagnosis and treatment when it is not necessary.¹²

How often: Men ages 55 to 69 should talk with their healthcare provider about the benefits and risks of prostate cancer screenings.⁹

Shingles vaccines

If you've had the chicken pox virus as a child, you can still get shingles as an adult.⁴ To help protect yourself, consider the shingles vaccine.

How often: The shingles vaccine is available to those at or over age 50.¹

Health Screenings for Men Age 60 and Up

During this life stage, staying physically and mentally active is key for overall health and well-being. Men's health screenings at this stage may include all of the medical tests above, plus those listed below. Talk to your doctor about the recommended frequency of these health screenings and vaccinations, and about any additional types of screenings you may need based on your health history.

Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening

Abdominal aortic aneurysms occur when the aorta becomes enlarged, making it more at risk for rupture. Smoking and high blood pressure can increase the risk of this type of aneurysm. An ultrasound of the heart can evaluate the health of your aorta.¹³

How often: Men aged 65 to 75 who have a history of smoking should talk with their healthcare provider about being screened. ¹⁴

Pneumonia vaccines

Although pneumonia can be mild, severe cases of it can be life-threatening. Those age 60 and up can help protect themselves from pneumonia with a two-part vaccination treatment.¹⁵

How often: Two vaccinations, a year apart, are recommended.¹⁴

Memory testing

According to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, there is little benefit to completing memory testing if an individual is not showing symptoms. Age-related memory changes are normal during this phase of life, so it can be difficult for a memory screening to differentiate between expected and usual decline. ¹⁶

How often: Although a regular screening is not recommended, contact your healthcare provider if you notice you are suffering from sudden changes or a rapid decline in your cognitive abilities.¹⁶

Hearing tests

Hearing loss can be more common during this life stage. If you notice that you have difficulty hearing conversations, schedule a hearing exam to help diagnose the issue.

How often: Hearing tests can be performed as needed if you experience difficulty hearing.¹⁴

6 Ways Men Can Protect Their Health

Scheduling routine screenings is one of the most important things men can do for their overall health. Getting routine checkups and health screenings with your general physician and seeing specialists as needed — like cardiologists, gastroenterologists and audiologists — are key steps to maintaining good health. In addition, keeping up with annual checkups and adopting a healthier lifestyle can help minimize the risk of many preventable diseases and conditions. Here are 6 tips to help men protect and optimize their health.

1. Schedule an annual well-man checkup with your doctor

This is an ideal time for your primary care doctor to check your blood pressure and cholesterol and perform other important tests and health screenings for men. That may include screenings for testicular cancer, heart disease and diabetes. These types of tests can help detect problems early, when they're easier to treat. Keep in mind that men's health and risk factors can change with age, too. Certain life stages may call for more attention to specific men's health screenings.

2. Mix up your exercise

Regular exercise is an important way for men to maintain a healthy weight and help prevent health conditions like heart disease and diabetes. But it's also key to have variety in your workouts. Aim for a balance of aerobic exercise (think running, swimming or tennis), strength training and stretching.¹⁷

3. Get enough sleep

Chronic sleep deprivation may boost your risk of heart disease and other health conditions. Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night. For better sleep quality, try going to bed and waking up around the same time every day, and limit screen time before bedtime.¹⁸

4. Pay attention to your diet

Eat a variety of nutrient-rich foods, including fruits and vegetables, lean meats and whole grains, while limiting salt and processed foods. A healthy diet can help lower your risk of preventable conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Focus on a variety of healthy foods (along with plenty of water) to help ensure your body gets the nutrients it needs for a healthy immune system.

5. Embrace healthy lifestyle habits

For better overall men's health, avoid smoking, tobacco and recreational drug use, drink alcohol in moderation and wear sunscreen every day.

6. Take steps to manage stress

Focus on a healthy work-life balance, maintain strong social connections and remember to take time for yourself. Pay attention to signs of depression and don't hesitate to reach out to loved ones or your doctor for help in managing your mental health.¹⁹

CareCredit Financing for Men's Health

In addition to annual checkups, be sure to schedule an appointment with your doctor if you have any health concerns or notice any new symptoms. The CareCredit credit card is an easy way to pay for male medical exams, health screenings, tests, lab work and more at enrolled healthcare providers and health-focused retailers nationwide.* Use our Acceptance Locator or download the CareCredit Mobile App to find a nearby service provider or retailer who accepts the CareCredit credit card.

Author Bio

Kate Bayless is an experienced health and wellness freelance writer with 15 years of experience. Her work has appeared in Parents, Women's Health, Beachbody, and OpenFit.