Staying healthy isn’t just about avoiding illness — it’s about living fully, feeling strong, and staying connected to the people and moments that matter most.
In our Men’s health blog last year, we shared the foundational steps every man should take to maintain good health — regular checkups, consistent exercise, balanced eating, and stress management.
This year, we’re building on those basics with a deeper dive into the key health milestones every man should know. Think of it as a roadmap — not to perfection, but to awareness, prevention, and health empowerment.
We’ll walk through when to schedule screenings, what signs to look out for, and how to check in on your physical and mental well-being. No scare tactics, just caring guidance, practical tips, and encouragement to put yourself and your health first.
Heart Health: The Engine That Keeps You Going
Your heart powers everything — literally. A healthy heart keeps your entire body running smoothly, delivering oxygen and nutrients to every system. Prioritizing heart health early means laying the foundation for decades of strength and vitality.
Ages 20–40: Know Your Numbers
This is the time to set strong habits and start monitoring your baseline:
- Blood Pressure: Often symptomless until it becomes dangerous. If you’re dealing with headaches, dizziness, fatigue, or blurred vision, check in with your doctor.
- Cholesterol: Monitor both HDL (good) and LDL (bad). Staying in range now reduces future risk of heart attack and stroke.
After 40: Go a Step Further
- Coronary CT Calcium Scan: A quick, non-invasive scan to detect calcium buildup in your arteries — especially helpful if you have risk factors but no symptoms yet.
- ECG (Electrocardiogram): Checks the heart’s rhythm and electrical activity to detect irregularities.
- Diabetes Screening: High blood pressure and cholesterol often go hand-in-hand with undiagnosed diabetes. A simple blood test can give you clarity.
After 60: Stay Ahead of Serious Risks
- Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening: Especially important for men over 60 who have smoked. A quick ultrasound could make a life-saving difference.
Prostate Health: Start the Conversation
Prostate health may not be top of mind in your 30s or early 40s, but by 45, it’s time to bring it into the conversation with your doctor. Early screenings can help catch potential issues long before symptoms appear.
Age 50 and Beyond
- Start the Conversation: Ask your doctor about the PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) test to see if screening is right for you.
- Routine Screening: If you opt in, most men begin annual screenings between 50–75, combining PSA tests with a DRE (Digital Rectal Exam).
After 75
Your overall health and life expectancy become more important factors. Screening should be a personalized decision between you and your healthcare provider.
Earlier Screening (Ages 40–45)
If you’re in a higher-risk group — such as those with a family history or African American men — talk to your provider about starting screenings earlier.
Mental Health: What You Don’t See Still Matters
Let’s normalize mental wellness. Just because it’s not visible doesn’t mean it’s not important — and you don’t have to go through it alone. Mental health challenges often show up in subtle ways, especially for men. Here’s what to watch for:
Behavioral Changes
- Pulling away from friends or family
- Increased irritability, anger, or outbursts
- Escaping into work, risky behavior, or substances
Physical Symptoms
- Trouble sleeping or major shifts in sleep patterns
- Appetite changes — overeating or under-eating
- Unexplained aches, fatigue, or digestion issues
Emotional Red Flags
- Persistent sadness or hopelessness
- Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
- Trouble concentrating or increased anxiety
If something feels off — speak up. Talking to a mental health professional isn’t weakness — it’s strength in action. A healthier mind leads to a more balanced, fulfilling life.
Diabetes: Take Control Early
Diabetes is more common than ever, but it doesn’t have to be inevitable. Lifestyle choices play a huge role in prevention and long-term health.
- Prioritize a Healthy Weight – Excess weight can impact how your body handles insulin and sugar. Aim for 90+ minutes of physical activity per week, whether that’s walking, biking, weight training, or dancing in your kitchen — it all counts.
- Nourish with Intention- Choose real, whole foods: veggies, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid highly processed, sugary, or fried foods that can spike blood sugar and increase inflammation.
- Practice Moderation- No one’s saying give up the foods you love. But balance is everything. Enjoy sugary treats, red meat, and fast food sparingly — not daily.
- Know When to Test- If you’re over 45, have a family history, or had gestational diabetes, talk to your doctor about regular screening. Early detection makes a huge difference.
Wrap-Up: Small Steps, Big Impact
Men’s Health Month is your reminder — not to panic, but to check in. Whether it’s booking a check-up, having an open conversation with your doctor, or simply being more mindful of your habits, every small step matters.
You don’t have to do it all at once. But the earlier you take action — for your heart, your mind, your prostate, and your long-term health — the more empowered and supported you’ll feel.
Stay strong. Stay curious. Stay well. And remember: your health is one of the best gifts you can give to yourself — and the people who love you.
