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Men’s health checkups by age

Many serious health problems start quietly, with no symptoms at all. Regular checkups and the right screenings can catch them early, when they are easier to treat. Here is a simple guide to what to ask about at each stage of life.

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By Aspire Health Community Care · Updated November 2026 · General education, not medical advice.

Older man reviewing his options with a smiling doctor at a clinic desk
A checkup today is a gift to the people who count on you.

In your 20s and 30s

This is a good time to set a baseline and build habits. You may feel great, but high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar often have no early symptoms.

  • Blood pressure: get it checked regularly as an adult
  • Cholesterol: many experts suggest a first test around age 20, then every 4 to 6 years if your risk is low
  • Diabetes: screening starts at 35 for men with overweight or obesity
  • Mood: screening for depression is recommended for all adults

In your 40s

Risks start to climb in your 40s. This is a key decade to get serious about the basics.

  • Blood pressure: at least once a year from age 40
  • Cholesterol and heart risk: from 40 to 75, your doctor can estimate your heart risk and talk about whether medicine makes sense
  • Diabetes: a blood test if you carry extra weight
  • Colorectal cancer: screening starts at 45 for men at average risk, sooner with a strong family history

In your 50s

Keep up the checks from your 40s, and add a few more.

  • Colorectal cancer: keep screening through age 75; there are several test options, including at-home stool tests and colonoscopy
  • Lung cancer: a yearly low-dose CT scan for men 50 to 80 with a 20 pack-year smoking history who still smoke or quit within the past 15 years
  • Prostate cancer: from 55 to 69, the PSA blood test is a personal choice; talk with your doctor about the possible benefits and harms

In your 60s and beyond

Many of the same checks continue, and one new one appears.

  • Abdominal aortic aneurysm: a one-time ultrasound for men 65 to 75 who have ever smoked
  • Colorectal cancer: after 75, decide with your doctor based on your health and past results
  • Blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes: keep checking on schedule

Vaccines at every age

Vaccines are part of staying healthy, too. A flu shot every year is recommended for adults. Ask your doctor which other vaccines are right for your age and health, such as shots for COVID-19, pneumonia, shingles, and tetanus.

ED can be a reason to get checked

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is common, and it is not just about sex. The same problems that hurt blood flow to the heart, like high blood pressure, diabetes, and clogged arteries, can also cause ED. Sometimes ED shows up before other signs.

If you have noticed changes, that’s a good reason to book a checkup. Your doctor can check your heart, blood pressure, and blood sugar, and talk about ED treatments. Many men do well with lifestyle changes and ED pills, which work well for many men. You don’t need to wait for a problem to talk to a doctor. Just tell them what’s going on.

Not sure where to start? We list trusted places to get checked in Louisiana, from community health centers to men’s health clinics. See where to get care.

Sources

Where to get care

Any of these is a good next step. Pick the one that fits you.

  • Aspire Health and Wellness†. A men’s health clinic in Metairie specializing in erectile dysfunction and weight loss, with free private visits and a range of treatment options. Visit aspireneworleans.com.
  • Your primary care doctor. A good first stop. They can check your heart, blood sugar, and hormone levels.
  • A urologist. A doctor who specializes in men’s urologic and sexual health.
  • A community health center. Fees are based on income, with or without insurance. Find a community health center.
  • Louisiana Medicaid. If you qualify, it covers doctor visits and prescriptions. See if you qualify.
  • Veterans. Southeast Louisiana VA Health Care offers men’s health care for enrolled veterans.

† Affiliated with Aspire Community Care. We’re a nonprofit and don’t provide medical care; choose any provider that fits you.

Not sure where to start? Tell us what’s going on and we’ll help you find a next step. What you share stays private.

Keep reading

Prostate Health

Common problems, warning signs, and screening choices.

Colon Cancer Screening

Why screening starts at 45, and your test options.

High Blood Pressure

No symptoms doesn’t mean no problem. Know your numbers.

Also helpful: Quitting Smoking · ED After 60

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