International Men's Health Week: 6 preventive screenings that can help improve lifespan

Health should be a top priority for men and women at any age. But when you reach the age of 30 or reach middle-age it becomes necessary that you keep a tab on your health. To bring awareness about this important aspect International Men’s Health Week is being celebrated from June 10 to June 16 this year.

What increases the risk of getting a disease that ultimately cuts down the lifespan is not making enough use of the tests and screenings that are available today. These screenings help you guess or even diagnose the chances of getting a particular disease or knowing the onset of a disease. Know about the 6 preventive screenings that can contribute towards increasing your life span.

Blood pressure

Hypertension or blood pressure has become quite common nowadays with even young men in their late twenties and early thirties getting diagnosed with high BP. That is why once a year at least you must get your blood pressure levels checked even if you are feeling hale and hearty. If diagnosed at the right time it will help you keep the blood pressure levels under control through medication and lifestyle changes. Importantly it will ensure that your cardiovascular health is protected.

Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes has become one of the most common diseases that is now diagnosed even in young children. Sedentary lifestyles and eating junk foods have led to an increase in blood sugar levels. Importantly Type 2 diabetes if left undiagnosed can affect the body's functioning and in the long run, can damage vital organs like the liver and kidneys. Once you become an adult every man should screen for diabetes at least once or twice every year to avoid health complications.

Screening for prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men. The risk for this type of cancer increases after you reach the age of 50. And if you have a family history of prostate cancer then you must start screening for it in your thirties. The test includes a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test and in some cases digital rectal exam (DRE).

It is also important to discuss the pros and cons of doing this screening so that you are well-informed about the side effects as well.

Bone density test

Although arthritis and osteoporosis are more common in women, even men can develop it, especially after 70. That is why once you cross your 50s it is important to do a bone density test to keep your bones in better health. Timely intervention through diet and supplements can reduce your risk of getting fractures and breaking bones.

Screening for skin cancer

Regular self-examination is a must to detect early signs of skin cancer. Apart from that after a certain age, getting checked by a healthcare giver for skin cancer through physical examination is recommended.

Eye and hearing test

The ability to both see and hear goes on declining as you age. Regular check-ups of both eyes and ears at least once in two years if you are below 50 and annually if you are in your 60s are a must to keep issues like cataracts, and hearing loss at bay.