Check-up exams for men over 50 include kidney and liver function, PSA, and digital rectal exam.
A reader asked which check-up exams for men over 50 are essential. Measuring cholesterol levels and screening for prostate cancer are among the core tests in the male check-up.
Routine screening helps detect diseases at early stages, which can ease treatment and improve outcomes. See below which exams are recommended and why they matter.
Which check-up exams should a 50-year-old man have?
The exams for men over 50 vary according to each patient’s medical history.
Even though the male check-up is personalized, some exams are commonly ordered. Check them out!
1. Complete blood count
The classic “blood test” provides a general overview of blood health, such as anemia, infections, or white blood cell changes that may indicate underlying issues.
2. Fasting glucose
Glucose (and cholesterol) testing in the male check-up is important because it evaluates blood sugar levels.
It can assist in diagnosing or monitoring diabetes, a chronic condition affecting 9.1% of Brazilian men, according to the Vigitel Brasil 2023 report.
Vigitel (Telephone Survey for Surveillance of Risk and Protective Factors for Chronic Diseases) was implemented in 2006 by the Ministry of Health to assess Brazilians’ health.
3. Lipid profile
A lipid profile is essential: it measures total cholesterol, HDL (“good”), LDL (“bad”), and triglycerides—key indicators of cardiovascular risk.
4. Kidney function
Tests such as urea and creatinine show how the kidneys are working. Kidney problems may be silent but can have serious impacts if not treated early.
5. Liver function
Liver function testing is also part of routine care for men’s health in later life.
It typically looks at AST/ALT and bilirubins to help identify hepatitis or damage from excessive alcohol intake.
6. PSA test
Prostate cancer screening includes the PSA test (prostate-specific antigen).
This test helps detect changes in the gland, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia or early signs of cancer.
7. Electrocardiogram (ECG)
An ECG is essential to evaluate the heart’s electrical activity, detecting arrhythmias or other cardiac issues.
8. Echocardiogram
Complementing the ECG, echocardiography uses ultrasound to analyze cardiac structures and function in more detail.
9. Chest X-ray
A chest X-ray is especially recommended for smokers to identify lung problems and may reveal heart changes. Physicians may order it, particularly in smokers, to aid lung and heart assessment.
10. Abdominal ultrasound
Abdominal ultrasound examines organs such as liver, kidneys, pancreas, and prostate, detecting possible lesions or abnormalities.
11. Bone densitometry
To assess bone density and prevent osteoporosis. Men can also lose bone mass, though less commonly than women.
12. Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy requires preparation with diet changes days beforehand.
It is part of the male check-up and serves to inspect the colon for polyps or early signs of colorectal cancer.
13. Digital rectal exam
A quick, painless, and effective exam to detect structural prostate changes, including cancer.
14. Eye exams
Eye evaluations are key for glaucoma, cataracts, and other age-related conditions.
Factors that influence how often you need exams
Understand what determines the periodicity of the exams needed to maintain men’s health after 50:
- Family history: prostate cancer, diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease in the family may require more frequent exams or earlier screening.
- Lifestyle habits: smoking, excessive alcohol, and poor diet increase the risk of serious diseases and call for closer follow-up.
- Bowel changes: changes in bowel habits, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss also warrant specific evaluation.
How to stay healthy from age 50 and beyond?
Maintaining health after 50 requires healthy habits plus regular medical follow-up.
Keep a healthy diet
A balanced diet is foundational.
Eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and high-fiber foods helps control weight, reduce cholesterol, and prevent conditions such as diabetes and cancer.
Avoiding processed foods and saturated fats is essential to protect the heart and vascular system.
Exercise regularly
Aerobic activities like walking, swimming, or cycling, combined with strength training, improve circulation, strengthen bones, and maintain muscle mass.
These habits also help keep weight in check, since obesity is linked to chronic problems such as hypertension and type 2 diabetes.
Control your weight
Quitting smoking is one of the most important steps for healthy aging. Tobacco is a major risk factor for lung cancer, cardiovascular disease, and COPD.
See your doctor regularly
For preventing conditions in men over 50, schedule regular visits as advised to complete your check-up exams for men over 50 and receive guidance for healthy aging.
More men’s health content on Dr. Paulo Egydio’s channel
You’ve seen the key exams recommended for men 50+.
Now follow the Dr. Paulo’s YouTube channel for clear, practical videos on men’s sexual health and answers to common questions.
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