Men’s health: checks, symptoms and when to seek advice 

Looking after your health can easily slip down the priority list when life gets busy. This Men’s Health Awareness Month, we explore the basics: understanding which health checks may be relevant to you, noticing changes in your body and knowing when to seek advice. 

There is no one-size-fits-all checklist. Your medical and family history, lifestyle and any symptoms can help guide a conversation with a healthcare professional about what is right for you. 

High blood pressure often has no obvious symptoms, but over time it can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke and kidney problems. The only way to know whether your blood pressure is raised is to have it measured. 

Cholesterol is another indicator of cardiovascular health. Your body needs cholesterol to function, but having too much of certain types can contribute to fatty deposits building up in your arteries. A cholesterol check, usually through a blood test, can help build a clearer picture of your risk alongside factors such as age, blood pressure, smoking and family history. 

Type 2 diabetes can develop over time, and some people may have it without recognising the symptoms. Feeling unusually thirsty, needing to urinate more often, feeling tired or losing weight without trying can be signs, although not everyone notices changes early on. 

Your risk may be higher if you have a family history of type 2 diabetes, are overweight or have high blood pressure. If you are concerned about your risk, speak to your GP about whether testing is appropriate. A blood test can help identify raised blood glucose levels. 

Not every useful step is a routine health check. Being familiar with what is normal for you can help you recognise changes that deserve attention, but awareness of symptoms is not the same as a screening test. 

For example, be aware of what is normal for your testicles and seek medical advice promptly if you notice a new lump, swelling, discomfort or a change in size or shape. Many changes have causes other than cancer, but it is important to get anything unusual assessed by a healthcare professional rather than trying to diagnose it yourself. 

Prostate health is another area men may have questions about, particularly as they get older. Changes such as needing to urinate more often, difficulty starting, a weak flow or getting up repeatedly during the night can have several causes. If you notice persistent changes, speak to your GP. 

A PSA blood test may be discussed in some circumstances, but it is not a routine test that is right for every man. The decision should take account of individual circumstances, including age, symptoms and family history, alongside a discussion with a healthcare professional about potential benefits and limitations. 

If close relatives have experienced conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes or certain cancers, mention this when you speak to your GP. Family history does not mean you will necessarily develop the same condition, but it may affect your risk and the advice you are given. 

It is also worth keeping up with relevant screening invitations and checking which programmes apply to you, as eligibility varies. Routine checks cannot rule out every health problem, so do not wait for a scheduled appointment if you notice a new or persistent symptom that worries you. 

Knowing your risk factors and speaking to a healthcare professional when you have concerns can help you make informed decisions on which checks are appropriate for you. Make a note of relevant family health history, and arrange an appointment to discuss a symptom or concern.