7 Tests for Men That Could Save Your Life

Medical tests aren’t always invasive or embarrassing, sometimes they’re as simple as a quick blood test. Even then, it’s surprising how often some people will avoid them as much as possible.

While not all tests are fool proof, many routine tests could help detect a potentially severe or even fatal illness. Here are 7 tests that you should consider asking your doctor about. He or she may tell you that you don’t fall into the risk categories, but it doesn’t hurt to ask.

1- Cholesterol levels.

We hear about good cholesterol and bad cholesterol – which is which and what is what? The so-called good cholesterol is high-density lipoprotein , or HDL. You want to have this so remember that you want your H DL to be High . The low-density lipoprotein , the LDL, is the so-called bad cholesterol. You want the L DL to be Low .

Your goal should be to have your LDL between 100 and 129 mg/dL. Between 130 and 159 is considered “borderline,” 160 to 190 is high, and over 190 is dangerously high.

2- Rectal digital exam

Ok, this is the one that many men dread but it’s an important one. If you’ve never had one and you don’t seem to have any rectal or prostate problems, ask your doctor when you should have your first one rectal exam. If there is a history of prostate cancer or enlarged prostate in your family, you will likely start having this test sooner than later.

3- PSA test

It’s often recommended that this blood test be done as a baseline (to get a first “read”) when a man turns 40, if he has no symptoms or family history of prostate cancer.

4- Colonoscopy

Colorectal cancer is the fourth most common cancer in American men . It’s also one of the most curable cancers, with a 90% cure rate if it’s caught early enough. If you have no family history of colorectal cancer, ask your doctor when you should have your first screening test. If you do have a family history, tell your doctor because you’ll want to be screened earlier and likely more frequently.

5- Melanoma screening

Skin cancer is on the rise. Basal cell skin cancer is what is called the benign one – it doesn’t cause harm. But melanoma is deadly. Middle-aged adults and those who are older didn’t have the benefit of knowing how dangerous the sun could be on their skin when they were younger. A baseline check in your 20s and then every few years after if you’re not at high risk will likely be enough. However, if you notice any skin changes or you are at high risk, your doctor may want to see you once a year.

6- Diabetes screening

If you have any risk factors for diabetes (family history, are overweight, don’t exercise, etc), you should consider being screened for diabetes. Ask your doctor how often you should be checked.

7- Glaucoma screening

Glaucoma is a devastating eye disease that can lead to blindness . While it’s not curable yet, its progress may be delayed with treatment. All men should be checked at least once in their life, more often if they’re at high risk.

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