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Men's Health
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Population Groups

Men's Health

Men are statistically more likely to engage in risky health behaviors and delay medical care, making early screening and preventative checkups essential.

Overview

Most men need to pay more attention to their health. Compared to women, men are more likely to:

  • Smoke and drink
  • Make unhealthy or risky choices
  • Put off regular checkups and medical care

Prevention and Screening

There are also health conditions that only affect men, such as prostate cancer and low testosterone. Many of the major health risks that men face—like colon cancer or heart disease—can be prevented and treated with early diagnosis.

Screening tests can find diseases early, when they are easier to treat. It is important to get the screening tests you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

For prostate problems, which can include prostate cancer or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), watch for changes in urination such as frequent urges, difficulty starting or stopping, a weak stream, or waking up at night to urinate. For low testosterone, symptoms can be subtle and include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, reduced muscle mass, increased body fat, and mood changes like depression or irritability. If you experience any of these, it's important to discuss them with your doctor.
Key preventative screenings for men include blood pressure checks (regularly from adulthood), cholesterol screenings (starting around age 35, or earlier with risk factors), and diabetes screenings (especially if overweight or with risk factors). For cancer, colon cancer screening typically begins at age 45 for average-risk individuals, and prostate cancer screening discussions usually start around age 50, or earlier for those with a family history or African American descent. Regular physical exams are also crucial to discuss overall health and any emerging concerns with your doctor.
To overcome delaying medical care, men can start by scheduling an annual physical as a non-negotiable appointment, even if they feel healthy. Finding a doctor they trust and feel comfortable talking openly with is also key. Setting reminders for appointments, involving a partner or family member for support, and understanding that early detection often leads to simpler, more effective treatments can also help shift perspective. Focusing on health as a way to maintain strength and independence for family and activities can be a strong motivator.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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