Health library

Screening tests for men

Find out which tests you should get in each decade of life

Screening tests can help you find and head off health problems early. Keep reading to find out which tests men should get in each decade of life.

Note: This information is intended as a general guide. Talk to your doctor for details on what types of tests you need and when to get them.

20s—Recommended tests:

• Blood pressure. At least every 2 years.
• Cholesterol. Every 4 to 6 years.

30s—Recommended tests:

• Blood pressure. At least every 2 years.
• Cholesterol. Every 4 to 6 years.
• Diabetes. Ask your doctor.

40s—Recommended tests:

• Blood pressure. At least every 2 years.
• Cholesterol. Every 4 to 6 years.
• Colorectal cancer. Start at age 45. Talk to your doctor about screening options.
• Diabetes. At least every 3 years, starting at age 45.
• Prostate cancer. African American men should talk with their doctor about the pros and cons of screening at age 45.

50s—Recommended tests:

• Blood pressure. At least every 2 years.
• Cholesterol. Every 4 to 6 years.
• Colorectal cancer. Talk to your doctor about screening options.
• Diabetes. At least every 3 years.
• Prostate cancer. At age 50, talk to your doctor about the pros and cons of screening.

60s—Recommended tests:

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm. Once between ages 65 and 75 if you've ever been a smoker.
• Blood pressure. At least every 2 years.
• Cholesterol. Every 4 to 6 years.
• Colorectal cancer. Talk to your doctor about screening options.
• Diabetes. At least every 3 years.
• Prostate cancer. Talk to your doctor about the pros and cons of screening.

70+—Recommended tests:

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm. Once between ages 65 and 75 if you've ever been a smoker.
• Blood pressure. At least every 2 years.
• Cholesterol. Every 4 to 6 years.
• Colorectal cancer. Through age 75, talk to your doctor about screening options.
• Diabetes. At least every 3 years.
• Osteoporosis. Start at age 70; thereafter depends on your risk factors.
• Prostate cancer. Talk to your doctor about the pros and cons of screening.

VISIT THE MEN'S HEALTH TOPIC CENTER FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HOW MEN CAN STAY HEALTHY.

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Sources: American Cancer Society; American Heart Association; Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation; National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases