We’re committed to supporting the physical and mental well-being of every man in our community. Health and fitness aren’t just destinations—they’re journeys. A crucial part of this journey is staying on top of preventative health screenings. These tests help us catch potential issues early, ensuring we stay in top shape.
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Are you up to date with your essential screenings?Â
Staying on top of your health means keeping up with essential screenings throughout your life. Here’s a decade-by-decade guide to ensure you’re up to date on your health!
In Your 20s
Your 20s are the perfect time to start routine blood work to check the basics and monitor cholesterol levels. Unless your doctor advises otherwise, plan to have blood work done every 1-3 years until your mid-thirties.
In Your 30s
By age 35, it’s time to start assessing your risk for diabetes by checking your hemoglobin A1c (HgbA1c). If you’re at higher risk, consider having this test annually. This decade is also crucial for annual blood pressure checks, establishing a consistent exercise routine, and prioritizing quality sleep.
In Your 40s
At age 45, schedule your first colonoscopy. The recommended age for this initial screening was recently lowered from 50 to 45 due to increased rates of colon cancer in younger adults. Plan to repeat this test at least every 10 years. Additionally, start getting routine eye exams every 2-4 years, ensuring your retina health is assessed regularly. Annual dermatology skin checks are also advised to monitor for skin cancer, including melanoma, which has seen a 40% increase in recent years.
In Your 50s
If you’ve ever smoked 20 packs per year, start lung cancer screening via low-dose computed tomography (LDCT). Begin assessing your prostate cancer risk with a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test, typically repeated during your annual physical. Discuss your vaccination status with your doctor to ensure you’re up to date on flu (annual), COVID-19, Tdap (every 10 years), Shingles, and Varicella vaccines.
In Your 60s and Beyond
Continue with your annual wellness checks and consider assessing bone density with a DEXA scan, especially if you have risk factors. Staying physically active is crucial as age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia) increases after age 55. Address any aches and pains with a physical therapist to improve balance, whole-body strength, and reduce fall risk.
Taking these steps will help you maintain your health at every stage of life. Stay proactive, stay healthy!
Aquacare/Fitness Forum Physical Therapy
