Why Men Avoid the Doctor (and Why That Has to Change)

Men are significantly less likely than women to attend routine health checkups, and more likely to delay seeking medical attention when symptoms arise. The consequences of this are measurable: many of the leading causes of death in men — cardiovascular disease, colorectal cancer, type 2 diabetes — are conditions where early detection dramatically improves outcomes.

Preventive care isn't about being hypochondriac. It's about making small, scheduled investments in your health that can catch serious problems before they become emergencies.

Screenings Every Man Should Have Regardless of Age

  • Blood pressure: High blood pressure is often symptomless — it's called the "silent killer" for good reason. Should be checked at least every 2 years from age 18.
  • BMI / waist circumference: Abdominal obesity is a key risk factor for metabolic and cardiovascular disease. A waist measurement above 94 cm (37 inches) indicates increased risk for most men.
  • Mental health assessment: Depression and anxiety in men are underdiagnosed. If you're struggling, flag it during any GP visit — it doesn't need to be the primary reason for the appointment.
  • Skin checks: Men are more likely to develop and die from melanoma than women, partly due to lower rates of sun protection. Regular self-examination and a dermatologist check if you notice changes in moles or lesions.
  • Dental checkups: Oral health is directly linked to cardiovascular health. Twice-yearly dental checkups are recommended.

Screenings by Age Group

In Your 20s and 30s

  • Cholesterol (lipid panel): First test by age 35 (or earlier if you have risk factors like obesity, smoking, or family history of heart disease). Repeat every 5 years if normal.
  • Blood glucose / HbA1c: Screen for prediabetes from age 35, or earlier if you're overweight or have a family history of type 2 diabetes.
  • Sexually transmitted infections (STIs): If sexually active with new or multiple partners, regular STI testing (including HIV) is a responsible baseline regardless of symptoms.
  • Testicular self-examination: Testicular cancer is most common in men aged 15–45. Monthly self-examination helps identify unusual lumps early. Ask your GP to demonstrate the technique.

In Your 40s

  • Blood pressure: Annual monitoring if borderline or with risk factors.
  • Type 2 diabetes screening: More frequent if risk factors are present.
  • PSA test discussion: The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test for prostate cancer screening is a nuanced topic — speak to your GP about whether it's appropriate for you, weighing family history and individual risk factors.
  • Eye examination: Glaucoma and other vision-related conditions become more common. An eye test every 2 years is advisable.

In Your 50s and Beyond

  • Colorectal cancer screening: Recommended from age 50 (or 45 in some guidelines). Options include stool tests (FIT test) or colonoscopy. Colorectal cancer is highly treatable when caught early.
  • Prostate health monitoring: More active conversation with your GP about PSA testing and prostate symptoms.
  • Bone density (DEXA scan): Osteoporosis affects men too, particularly after 65 or if you've had fractures, low testosterone, or long-term steroid use.
  • Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening: In the UK, men are invited for a one-off ultrasound scan at age 65. Elsewhere, discuss with your doctor if you're a current or former smoker over 65.
  • Hearing test: Hearing loss is common and often goes unaddressed in men. A baseline test in your 50s helps identify changes over time.

How to Make Preventive Care a Habit

  1. Schedule a "health MOT" annually — use your birthday as a prompt to book a GP review.
  2. Keep a personal health record noting your key metrics (blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose) so you can track changes over time.
  3. Don't wait for symptoms — many serious conditions are asymptomatic until they're advanced. That's exactly why screening exists.
  4. Normalise talking about health — with your mates, your partner, and your sons. Breaking the cultural silence around men's health saves lives.

The Bottom Line

You wouldn't ignore the warning lights on your car dashboard. Don't ignore the signals — or the absence of signals — when it comes to your body. Regular, age-appropriate health screenings are one of the highest-return investments a man can make in his long-term quality of life.