Men Over 40 Urged to Pursue Critical Health Screenings as Avoidance Persists

Men account for higher rates of nearly all major chronic diseases, yet nearly two-thirds admit they avoid going to the doctor for as long as possible, according to a Cleveland Clinic survey. This concerning trend persists even as physicians warn that routine screenings become essential once men enter their 40s to detect problems before preventable conditions turn life-threatening.

“When it comes to preventing heart attacks, strokes, fatigue, erectile dysfunction, metabolic disease and early aging, testing is essential,” says Dr. Jack Wolfson, a cardiologist in Arizona. “Most men have no idea what’s happening inside their bodies until it’s too late.”

The reluctance of men to seek preventive care has created a significant health gap, with many overlooking crucial screenings that could detect issues early. Dr. Wolfson’s advice is straightforward: “Test, don’t guess. Catch the problem early, fix it naturally, and live to 100 and beyond with vitality.”

Healthcare experts emphasize several key screenings that men over 40 should discuss with their doctors, including:

A complete blood count (CBC) provides critical information about red and white blood cells and platelets, revealing potential infections, inflammatory responses, anemia, or clotting disorders. Dr. Andrea Caamano, a New Jersey endocrinologist, recommends yearly testing, noting it’s particularly important for men using testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), as testosterone stimulates red blood cell production.

Similarly, a comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) measures metabolic and organ function, providing information about kidney and liver health, electrolyte levels, and glucose status. “It is important to catch any organ issue that can pop up on its own, or that can be age- or medication-induced,” Dr. Caamano explains.

Blood pressure monitoring remains fundamental, with the CDC and U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommending annual testing for those over 40. High blood pressure, defined as 130/80 mmHg or higher, significantly increases cardiovascular risk and requires consistent monitoring, especially for men using TRT.

For heart health, Dr. Auda Auda of Baker Health in New York strongly recommends coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring, which directly measures calcified plaque in coronary arteries. “For many men, it’s the difference between ‘normal annual labs’ and a silent, high-risk cardiovascular picture that would otherwise go unnoticed,” he notes. This test can identify early coronary atherosclerosis, prompting targeted lifestyle changes and interventions before more serious problems develop.

An advanced lipid profile offers more comprehensive information than standard cholesterol tests by breaking down specific types of LDL particles. “Some LDL particles are far more dangerous than others,” explains Dr. Jeremy M. Liff, a board-certified neurologist. “This test gives men over 40 a much clearer picture of their cardiovascular risk and whether they need major dietary or lifestyle changes.”

Thyroid function tests are vital as men age, with issues potentially leading to mood changes, fatigue, weight fluctuations, palpitations, and hair loss. The test measures TSH, free T4, and free T3 levels to determine whether the thyroid is functioning properly.

The PSA blood test, which measures prostate-specific antigen levels, is used to screen for prostate cancer or enlargement, though major health organizations recommend a shared decision-making approach due to risks of false positives and overtreatment.

Metabolic health screenings have gained increased attention, with insulin sensitivity testing providing insights beyond standard glucose measures. “Insulin resistance influences nearly every major organ, including the liver and the brain,” Dr. Liff explains. “It plays a major role in metabolic health, long-term inflammation and future disease risk.”

For men experiencing symptoms like low libido, fatigue, or breast enlargement, hormone level testing can help determine whether testosterone replacement therapy might be beneficial. Dr. Caamano emphasizes the importance of morning testing, as testosterone levels naturally peak during early hours.

Additional recommended tests include the omega-3 index, which Dr. Wolfson calls “the most powerful predictor of heart attack and sudden death risk,” carotid artery ultrasound to detect narrowing that could reduce blood flow to the brain, and colon cancer screening, which should now begin at age 45 for average-risk adults.

Inflammation markers, such as high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and vitamin D levels also provide valuable information about overall health status and chronic disease risk.

Despite the clear benefits of these screenings, reluctance persists among many men. Healthcare professionals emphasize that early detection through appropriate screening can significantly improve health outcomes and quality of life as men age.

Medical organizations continue to refine screening recommendations based on emerging research, but the fundamental message remains clear: regular preventive care is essential for men’s long-term health, particularly after age 40.