Essential health tests for men at any age

It’s not a myth: Men tend to seek preventive care at significantly lower rates than women. Research suggests many men fear missing work or paying high healthcare costs, while others are reluctant to talk about their medical issues, even with a familiar physician.

But it’s critical to attend regular checkups for screenings, vaccinations, exams, medical history updates, and guidance. These key visits can help keep you healthy, catch problems early, and prolong your life.

“One of the most important things for men’s health is for men to show up to the doctor and not let the fear of what might be keeping them from preventive care,” says Christopher Holloway, MD, a primary care physician in Antioch, Tennessee. “Early detection is best because it gives you a significant survival benefit.”

With that in mind, here’s what to know about important health screenings for men.