Men’s Health Screenings: 5 Important Tests Men Should Not Skip

Been meaning to schedule that checkup? This is your sign. June is Men’s Health Month, a timely reminder that preventive care is key to staying healthy. Regular health screenings can help catch health concerns early, identify personal risk factors, and support long-term wellness. Whether you feel healthy, are managing a chronic condition, or have not seen a provider in years, a primary care visit is a smart place to start. At Harmony Healthcare Long Island, our family medicine and care coordination teams can help determine which screenings are right for your age, family history, and health needs.

Blood Pressure Screening

High blood pressure often has no obvious symptoms, but it can raise the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and other serious conditions. A blood pressure check is quick, simple, and usually part of a routine visit.

Men with readings above the healthy range may need lifestyle support, follow-up visits, or medication. Regular monitoring helps your provider see patterns and act before complications develop.

Cholesterol Screening

Cholesterol levels offer important insight into heart health. Too much “bad” cholesterol can contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. A cholesterol screening is done with a blood test and may include LDL, HDL, triglycerides, and total cholesterol.

You and your doctor can use these results, along with your blood pressure, smoking history, diabetes status, and family history, to help create and guide your prevention plan.

Diabetes Screening

Type 2 diabetes and prediabetes can develop slowly and may not cause noticeable symptoms at first. Screening can identify blood sugar concerns early, when lifestyle changes and treatment may help prevent complications.

Your provider may recommend an A1C test, fasting blood sugar test, or other lab work based on your age, weight, symptoms, and risk factors. Men with a family history of diabetes, high blood pressure, or overweight should be especially proactive. If you are diagnosed with diabetes, it is imperative to create a plan to help you stay on track.

Colorectal Cancer Screening

Colorectal cancer screening can find cancer early, when treatment is more effective. It can also find certain growths, called polyps, before they become cancerous. Many adults at average risk should begin screening at age 45, but some men may need to start earlier because of family history or other conditions.

Screening options may include stool-based tests or a colonoscopy. Your provider can help you choose the option that fits your health needs.

Prostate Health Discussions

Prostate screening is not one-size-fits-all, which is why a conversation with your provider matters. Men should talk about urinary symptoms, family history, race, age, and the benefits and risks of PSA testing.

For some men, screening may provide valuable information. For others, testing may lead to unnecessary worry or follow-up procedures. The best decision is an informed one made with your provider.

Make Preventive Care a Habit

The most important screening is often the one you schedule. Annual checkups give men a chance to review medications, update vaccines, discuss mental health, address lifestyle goals, and discuss specialty care if needed. HHLI’s adult/family medicine and care coordination services can help you stay organized and build a plan that supports your health for years to come.

This Men’s Health Month, take the next step. Schedule a visit with Harmony Healthcare Long Island and make preventive care part of your routine.