June is Men's Health Awareness Month, so there’s no better time for men to focus on their well-being. This starts with scheduling regular check-ups and screenings. If you’re a man under the age of 50, you might not think this applies to you. But being proactive about your health means catching potential problems early! Routine screenings can be key to long and healthy lives.

When should men’s health screenings start?

You might think that health concerns like prostate cancer, high cholesterol, blood pressure, and colon cancer are only for older men, but that's not the case. New studies and evolved screening show that men should address these health areas with their primary care doctors throughout their lives.

Nathan Merriman, MD, Medical Director of Gastroenterology and Digestive Health at Intermountain Medical Center, explained that it's not just about age anymore. Depending on your family history, you might need to start getting checked earlier.

“Previously, age 50 was sort of the magic number to come in and screen for prostate and colon cancers,” said Dr. Merriman. “But those age recommendations have changed and often, earlier is better, depending on your family history.”

Colorectal cancer is a serious issue that affects men of all ages. According to the American Cancer Society, almost 2,100 men between 20 and 49 lost their lives to colorectal cancer in 2020. This adds up to 17% of cancer-related deaths in that age group.

Dr. Merriman stressed the importance of starting colorectal cancer screenings at age 45. It's a slow-developing disease, but catching it early can make a huge difference. If you experience abdominal pain or notice blood in your stool, don't ignore it.

“Being proactive about your health when you’re younger can have major benefits down the line,” said Dr. Merriman. “You don’t want to wait until your retirement to start focusing on your health because, in some cases, the problems might be too late to fix.”

Why should men stay proactive about their health?

You might feel invincible in your 20s and 30s, but taking charge of your health early can have incredible benefits down the road. Dr. Merriman advised keeping an eye on your heart health by checking cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and weight.

Dr. Merriman also reminded that vaccinations are for everyone, not just children. Adults need to be caught up on pneumococcal, hepatitis, shingles, and influenza vaccines.

Getting routine check-ups and screenings is a powerful way for men to prioritize their health. By partnering with your healthcare provider and staying committed to regular check-ups, you can catch potential health problems early and enjoy a healthier, happier life.

“Yearly visits don’t have to be complicated, but it’s also a time when men can speak honestly with their doctor about both their physical and mental health,” said Dr. Merriman. “A physician is your healthcare teammate and can ensure you are getting the help you need.”