Regular health check-ups are crucial for maintaining well-being and identifying potential health issues early. Men, in particular, face a range of health concerns that become more common with age, such as prostate and testicular cancer. As Men’s Health Awareness Month begins this week, Dr. Donald Grant, GP and Senior Clinical Advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, has outlined essential “Health MOTs” every man should perform periodically to support a healthy lifestyle.
Dr. Grant emphasizes the importance of routine health checks, whether at home or with a licensed healthcare provider, to detect serious conditions as early as possible. With November marking Men’s Health Awareness Month, he details the key health assessments men should undertake to stay on top of their health.
### Testicular Self-Examination
“Testicular cancer can affect men of any age, but it is most prevalent among white men aged 18 to 45. I cannot stress enough how important it is to perform a monthly self-examination. Begin by looking for any swelling in the scrotum, then gently roll each testicle between your fingers and thumb to feel for any lumps. If you detect a lump or notice any changes in testicle size, seek medical attention promptly. Blood tests can help diagnose potential issues related to testicular cancer.”
### Monitoring Cholesterol Levels
“Keeping cholesterol levels in check is vital for reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. There are two types of cholesterol: high-density lipoprotein (HDL), which is beneficial, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), which can lead to artery blockage. Men can perform at-home finger-prick tests to accurately measure their cholesterol levels. Alternatively, a GP can take blood samples for further analysis.”
### Blood Pressure Assessment
“Early detection of high blood pressure is crucial to prevent severe health issues like heart disease and strokes. Since high blood pressure often has no symptoms, regular monitoring is essential. Men can use home monitors or visit their doctor for accurate readings. The test involves inflating a cuff to record systolic pressure. For reliable results, measure at the same time daily and repeat the test to confirm the findings.”
### Prostate Cancer Checks
“As men age, the risk of prostate cancer increases, particularly after the age of 50, although it can occur earlier. Regular checks are vital for men’s health. Home testing for prostate cancer is challenging, so it’s advisable to schedule a consultation with a doctor. The most common method involves a physical rectal exam to check for any abnormalities.”
### Eye Health Monitoring
“Vision tests are not limited to optician appointments; they can also be conducted at home using an eye chart or online vision tests. These tools are effective for detecting vision loss and can help identify issues like astigmatism or light sensitivity. While further evaluation can be done at an optician, monitoring eye health at home allows men to notice changes before they become severe.”
In summary, with Men’s Health Awareness Month in November, it serves as a reminder of the importance of regular health examinations. By performing these assessments, men can identify and address serious health conditions early, thereby improving their chances of recovery.
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Regular health check-ups are crucial for maintaining well-being and identifying potential health issues early. Men, in particular, face a range of health concerns that become more common with age, such as prostate and testicular cancer. As Men’s Health Awareness Month begins this week, Dr. Donald Grant, GP and Senior Clinical Advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, has outlined essential “Health MOTs” every man should perform periodically to support a healthy lifestyle.
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