Men who swap reactive care for a proactive approach are more likely to experience the best possible quality of life well into their 80s. With this in mind, and in honor of Men’s Health Month, I compiled a preventive care roadmap for men ages 40 to 80.
Cardiovascular Baseline
As men enter their 40s, it’s time to focus on blood pressure and cholesterol. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), key screenings help lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, including blood pressure, cholesterol, body weight and blood glucose.
Metabolic Health
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says more than 40 million Americans have diabetes, with most having type 2. Those ages 45 and older are at higher risk. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends screening for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes in overweight or obese adults ages 35 to 70.
Prostate Cancer
The American Urological Association (AUA) suggests that those with increased risk of developing prostate cancer, including Black men and those with a family history, begin screening at age 40 to 45. Others should start screening between the ages of 45 to 50. For men ages 50 to 69, regular prostate cancer screenings should take place every two to four years.
Colorectal Cancer
The Colorectal Cancer Alliance notes that colorectal cancer has become the deadliest cancer in men and women under 50. Screening guidelines have recently changed, and the USPSTF recommends that all people at average risk begin colon and rectal cancer screening at age 45.
Lung Cancer
The USPSTF says adults ages 50 to 80 who have smoked a pack a day for the last 20 years, or two packs a day for the last 10 years, and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years, should be screened for lung cancer.
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
An abdominal aortic aneurysm happens when the lower part of the aorta weakens and bulges outward. The USPSTF recommends a one-time screening for men ages 65 to 75 who have ever smoked.
Immunizations
Immunizations prevent millions of deaths annually. The CDC offers vaccine schedules by age, including those for older adults. These include shingles, RSV, pneumococcal, RSV, COVID-19, and more.
Sensory and Cognitive Health
The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) advises checking for geriatric syndromes, including dementia, depression, hearing and vision loss and falls at every annual wellness visit.
Take Action
AllCare offers preventive health and immediate care for urgent medical needs at 15 Atlanta-area locations. Additionally, we provide comprehensive primary care, including management of long-term chronic conditions, weight management programs and behavioral health services.
AllCare accepts most major insurance plans and offers affordable self-pay options. Same-day and walk-in appointments are available.