Early Detection Of Disease: Why Regular Health Checkups Are Important For Men

It is important to catch diseases early on, and prevent further spread and complications. Here are 10 simple and quick tests for men to do, to lead a good-quality life.

It is a known fact that for overall health and well-being, one must take some proactive measures, including being regular with their health checkups. Once you reach a certain age, it is crucial to get health checkups done on an annual basis to rule out diseases and conditions, and to catch health complications early on, preventing them from spreading and causing more harm. When it comes to men's health, there are many individuals who ignore signs and symptoms, and neglect their health. Dr Moumita Misra, head of lab operations (Mumbai) at Metropolis Healthcare Limited says simple preventive measures can protect men from serious health hazards and even death. "Men often ignore the warning signs their bodies show them," she says. According to the doctor, regular check-ups involve a few blood tests, body mass index measurement, and other non-pathological assessments.

10 Important Health Checkups For Men

Some basic tests readily available in almost every Indian city and town -- and those that must be considered by men -- are as follows:

1. Body mass index (BMI): Dr Misra says BMI is calculated using weight and height, and it helps to assess obesity, which is a major risk factor for heart attack, stroke, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and even certain cancers.
2. Blood pressure: It has often been seen that high BP is associated with increased risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney and eye problems. Regular monitoring, therefore, is important.
3. Complete blood count (CBC): Dr Misra says a simple blood test can tell a lot about the body's overall well-being. It can be used to diagnose certain infections, anemia, and even blood cancers.
4. Lipid profile: By undergoing this test, a patient will be able to find out about their total cholesterol, HDL levels, and triglycerides. This way they can mitigate risk of cardiovascular disease.
5. Blood sugar and HbA1c: Leading a sedentary lifestyle, being stressed and having a genetic predisposition can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. If not managed, can lead to complications like heart attack and stroke, and even kidney failure.
6. Kidney function tests (KFT): These tests are done to measure levels of blood urea nitrogen/urea, creatinine, uric acid, electrolytes, etc. Kidney disease does not present symptoms until it has advanced.
7. Liver function tests (LFT): The liver is one of the most crucial organs in the body, tasked with detoxifying it; it also regulates metabolism. A healthy liver is the key to a good-quality life.
8. Thyroid function tests: The doctor states this important test in men can detect many health issues. Hormonal imbalances can affect mood, weight, and energy levels. As such, it is important to be regular with the testing of thyroid hormones.
9. Electrocardiogram: An ECG can reveal some serious heart conditions, such as coronary artery blockages and arrhythmias. In fact, it is even known to reveal early signs of a heart attack.
10. Cancer screening tests (like PSA): Prostate-specific antigen tests in men can help detect cancerous and non-cancerous conditions of the prostate gland. Regular screening helps with early diagnosis.