CDC statistics reveal the leading causes of death in men include coronary artery disease, cancer (especially of the lung, prostate and colon), unintentional injuries, stroke, COPD and diabetes.  In light of this, I will briefly outline the most important health tests every man should know.

Coronary artery disease (CAD) remains the leading killer of men in our country.  Risk factors for CAD include advancing age, family history, cholesterol disorders, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes and smoking.  The first two risk factors are beyond our control but the remainder are measurable and modifiable.  Men between the ages of 20 to 35 should have cholesterol testing once every 5 years.  Men over the age of 35 should be screened at least every 3 years, though commonly this is tested more frequently (often annually).  Blood pressure screening should begin once a man reaches 20 years of age and should continue throughout his lifetime every 1 to 2 years.  Measurement of weight and height in order to calculate BMI (body mass index) should begin during childhood and continue periodically throughout life.  Screening for diabetes is best achieved by measuring fasting plasma glucose (sugar) – a simple blood test which should be performed about every 3 years.

Once results are available, men can work with their doctor to develop a plan to address and improve any deficiencies (if present) and/or work on maintaining good health.

Colon cancer screening should generally begin at age 50 with a colonoscopy and fecal occult blood testing (FOB).  Colonoscopy is generally repeated every 10 years until age 75 but may be more frequent depending on findings or on family history.  In addition, screening may end at a later age in certain patients.  Screening with FOB is performed on a yearly basis – if results are abnormal, a colonoscopy is performed for more definitive evaluation.

Screening for prostate cancer is a more controversial subject, as data is conflicting and often times unclear, however, most physicians continue to recommend initial screening using prostate specific antigen (PSA – a blood test) and digital rectal examination beginning at age 40.  Most continue this testing on an annual or bi-annual basis (depending on risk factors) until age 75 after which screening is no longer recommended for most men.

Preliminary results of a recent large study by the National Institutes of Health suggest a 20% decrease in lung cancer mortality achieved in men between the ages of 55 to 74 with a history of heavy smoking (30 pack years or more – about 30 years of smoking 1 pack of cigarettes per day).  Men were screened using low dose helical CT scan once yearly for 3 years.  Additionally, for men between the ages of 65 and 75 who have ever smoked, one-time screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm using ultrasound is recommended.

All of the above testing can be performed at the Medical Center.  Call to make an appointment and discuss appropriate testing with a doctor or nurse practitioner.