Prostate cancer
There are disagreements among experts on prostate cancer screening, so discuss the pros and
cons with your doctor. If you’re over 50, an annual digital prostate examination may be
recommended. This means the doctor inserts a gloved and lubricated finger into your anus to feel
for changes to the prostate gland.
The prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood test is not recommended as a screening test for the
general population. A positive PSA blood test must be confirmed with the digital test and other
tests including a biopsy of the prostate.
If you have a family history of any type of cancer, including prostate cancer, you may need to have
a PSA and digital test regularly after you turn 40. Ask your doctor for advice.
Bowel cancer
The faecal occult blood test (FOBT) uses chemicals to check a stool (poo) sample for blood. If
you’re over 50
, you should have this test once every two years, or after you turn 40 if you have a
family history.
Men at high risk of bowel cancer may need a colonoscopy every five years. During this test, the
doctor inserts a slender instrument called a colonoscope through the anus to visually check the
rectum and large bowel for any abnormalities.
Eye conditions
If you already wear prescription glasses or contact lenses, you should have your eyes tested every
year. Younger adult men who don’t wear prescription glasses or contact lenses should have an eye
test every two years.
Eyesight tends to deteriorate with age. Serious eye conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts,
diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration are more common with age. Men older than 60
years should have an annual exam. However, more frequent testing may be recommended for men
with certain risk factors, such as:
• Family history of eye disease
• Personal history of eye disease or injury
• Certain medical conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes
• Certain medicines.
See your doctor or eye care specialist for more information.
Bone density
Osteoporosis can affect men as well as women. Advancing age is a significant risk factor. A bone
density test helps to determine the health of your bones. Bone density testing is most often used
when people have:
Health checks for men Page 2 of 4
• Osteoporosis or concerns about osteoporosis
• A vertebral (spinal) deformity
• Osteopaenia (decreased bone density)
• A previous fracture.
Generally speaking, men over the age of 50 should have regular bone density tests. Be advised by
your doctor.
Other health topics
Your health check-up may include discussion about other health concerns, such as:
• Unusual symptoms you may be having
• Immunisation status
• Alcohol and drug issues
• Mental health concerns such as depression
• Erectile dysfunction or other sexual problems
• Injuries
• Relationship problems.
Your doctor may be able to help you directly. Sometimes, your doctor may refer to you specialists
for diagnosis and treatment.
Other tests
You may need other regular tests not listed here depending on your personal or family medical
history. Ask your doctor for further information.
Where to get help
• Your doctor
• Dentist
• Eye specialist.
Things to remember
• Men should see their doctor for regular medical check-ups.
• Screening tests help doctors to detect many diseases such as cardiovascular disease,
diabetes and some cancers in their early stages.
• A man at high risk of a particular disease should be regularly tested regardless of his age.
