Men's Health Checkups by Age: The Screenings That Matter

Men in India often put off seeing a doctor until symptoms are impossible to ignore. But the conditions most likely to shorten a man's life (heart disease, stroke, diabetes and some cancers) can be silent for years. Regular checkups catch them early, when they're easiest to treat.

This guide covers general recommendations. Your doctor may suggest earlier or more frequent tests based on your family history and lifestyle.

In your 20s and 30s

• Blood pressure: at least every 2 years if normal, every year if borderline. See high blood pressure.
• Weight and waist: check BMI with Indian cutoffs using our BMI calculator. A waist over 90 cm raises metabolic risk.
• Blood sugar: a baseline fasting glucose or HbA1c, especially if you're overweight or have a family history of diabetes. India's NP NCD programme screens everyone from age 30.
• Lipid profile: a baseline test, then every 4 to 5 years if normal.
• Dental checkup: yearly.
• Eye test: if you notice changes in vision.
• Testicular awareness: know what's normal for you and report any lump or swelling.
• Vaccines: tetanus booster every 10 years; hepatitis B if not immune; ask about HPV.

In your 40s

Everything above, plus:

• Yearly BP and blood sugar.
• Lipid profile every 1 to 3 years, depending on results and risk.
• Heart risk assessment: your doctor may estimate your 10 year cardiovascular risk and suggest an ECG or other tests if you have symptoms or several risk factors.
• Eye examination every 2 years, including eye pressure (glaucoma).
• Oral cancer check, especially important if you have ever used tobacco.

In your 50s

• Colorectal cancer screening: ask your doctor, especially if you have a family history; options include stool tests and colonoscopy.
• Prostate: discuss the pros and cons of a PSA blood test. Report urinary symptoms such as a weak stream, frequent nighttime urination or difficulty starting.
• Kidney function (creatinine, urine albumin), especially with diabetes or hypertension.
• Bone health: low vitamin D is common; men can develop osteoporosis too.

60 and beyond

• Hearing and vision checks.
• Fall risk and balance assessment.
• Review of all medicines with your doctor.
• Vaccines such as pneumococcal and yearly influenza, as advised.

Beyond the lab tests

• Tobacco: quitting at any age adds years of life. Call the National Tobacco Quitline at 1800 11 2356.
• Alcohol: there's no completely safe level; less is better.
• Mental health: men are less likely to seek help for stress, anxiety or depression. Tele MANAS (14416) is free and confidential.
• Sleep: loud snoring and daytime sleepiness can signal sleep apnoea, which raises heart risk. See how much sleep you need.
• Activity: aim for 150 minutes of brisk activity a week plus strength training twice a week.

The bottom line

Book a checkup even when you feel fine. A few simple tests every year or two can prevent a heart attack, stroke or late cancer diagnosis.