Strategies and Screenings to Prevent Disease
Taking a proactive approach to health care is the best way for men to avoid major health issues — and catch them early when they’re most treatable. Staying up-to-date on your age-specific screenings and immunizations is a smart way to care for your long-term wellness.
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Immunizations
Certain vaccinations, including the flu shot, COVID-19 boosters and shingles vaccines, are available and easy to get at your annual wellness exam or nearby AdventHealth Express Care at Walgreens location. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about which immunizations may be right for you based on your age and health history.
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Colorectal Cancer
When diagnosed early, colon cancer is more than 90% curable. For men with an average risk of colon cancer, colorectal screenings should start at 45 — now earlier than the previously recommended age of 50.
A gastroenterologist may perform colorectal cancer screening tests, including yearly stool-based tests, flexible sigmoidoscopy every five years, and colonoscopies every 10 years.
Your doctor may recommend more frequent screenings if you have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, or have certain conditions, including Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
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Prostate Cancer
Affecting 1 in 8 men, prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer among Americans. Screenings are more important now than ever. Prostate screenings typically begin at age 45 if you have a high risk of prostate cancer, or at 50 if your risk is average.
Types of prostate screenings include:
- Bloodwork, including a lipid panel or a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test
- Digital rectal exams (DRE)
- Imaging tests
One of our expert urologists will work with you to understand which prostate screening test is best for you.
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Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is the second most common type of cancer in men, and in most cases it doesn’t show symptoms until the more advanced stages. Experts recommend lung screenings for anyone considered high-risk, meaning they:
- Are age 50 or older
- Are a smoker or have quit within the last 15 years
- Have smoked one pack of cigarettes per day for at least 20 years or two packs a day for at least 10 years
Speak with your doctor right away if you are experiencing shortness of breath, coughing up blood, or have any other persistent chest symptoms.
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Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA)
If you currently smoke or were previously a smoker, it is recommended to begin screening for an abdominal aortic aneurysm at age 65. Though most cases of AAA cause no symptoms, pain in the abdomen or back may occur if the aneurysm becomes large. AAA screenings are also beneficial to prevent potential aneurysm ruptures.
Schedule an appointment with your health care provider to discuss if an AAA screening is right for you. And call your doctor right away if you are experiencing lingering abdominal or back pain.
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