Screening tests all men should have

Men are short-changed when it comes to their health and die on average six to eight years earlier than women – and mostly from preventable health conditions. Regular health checks can prevent this.

Some of the screening tests that males should have on an annual basis include:

Testosterone levels

There is a medical condition referred to as “Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome” or TDS which is like a “male menopause” – health consequences are serious. Please discuss TDS with the doctor.

Your abdominal fat by means of a waist circumference measurement

Please discuss the health consequences of a WC that is too high – and ask the doctor specifically about the relationship between a high waist circumference and Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome.

Digital rectal exam

To screen for prostate cancer. Many man are afraid or embarrassed and therefore do not go for their prosate checks. Discuss with the doctor how it is done and how often and from what age men should have a digital rectal exam.

Cholesterol

High cholesterol is one of the major risk factors for heart disease – particularly if you have other risk factors like diabetes, history of heart disease, tobacco use, high blood pressure, or too much abdominal fat.

Blood Pressure

High blood pressure increases the chance of getting heart or kidney disease and for having a stroke. If you have high blood pressure, you may need medication to control it.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Everyone – including men, should be tested for HIV, gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, or other sexually transmitted diseases.

For further information on Men’s Health and the “Let’s Talk Balls” campaign e-mail menshealth@oz.co.za

(Press release, June 2012)

(Picture: Doctor examining patient from Shutterstock)

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