When Should Men Start Health Screenings?

When it comes to men’s health, prevention really is stronger than cure. Yet many men still skip regular check-up, often until something feels wrong. To help clarify when to start and what to screen for, Singapore family physician Dr Cameron McKay from River Valley Doctors shares his evidence-based approach to men’s health screening.

When to Start

By age 40, all men should be having a full health screening annually. Earlier screening is still encouraged, particularly for those with a family history of heart disease, diabetes, or cancer. “Starting younger builds awareness of your own health markers,” says Dr Cameron. “You’ll spot trends early, not problems later.”

“Just because you feel fine doesn’t mean everything is fine,”

Risk Factors Matter

Screening isn’t one-size-fits-all. Family history, smoking, weight, and lifestyle all affect how early and how often men should test. For example, a man in his 30s who smokes or has a strong family history of heart disease should begin annual checks sooner.

These tests are quick, straightforward, and often take less than an hour, yet they provide valuable insight into a man’s long-term health.

How Often?

For healthy men over 40, a general screening once a year is ideal. Those with ongoing conditions such as diabetes or hypertension should see their doctor quarterly for management, in addition to their yearly full check.

What’s in a Typical Men’s Health Check

Dr Cameron tailors every screening, but recommends a baseline set of assessments for all men:

• Blood pressure, height, weight & waist circumference
• Fasting glucose & cholesterol levels
• Liver, kidney & thyroid function tests
• Full blood count

Additional tests – such as stool screening for bowel cancer, PSA testing for prostate cancer, or more advanced imaging like CT coronary angiogram – depend on individual age and risk.

“It’s important to understand the limitations of some tests,” Dr Cameron notes. “For example, up to 70% of positive PSA results are false alarms. That’s why these discussions should be personalised, not package-based.”

Milestones to Know

Bowel cancer: Begin screening around age 45 (earlier if there’s family history).

Prostate cancer: Discuss pros and cons of PSA testing before 50.

Heart health: Monitor blood pressure and cholesterol yearly after 40.

Common Misconception

“Just because you feel fine doesn’t mean everything is fine,” Dr Cameron reminds. “Many serious conditions; diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, cause no symptoms until significant damage has occurred. Screenings help catch them early and prevent long-term complications.”

Takeaway

Health screening isn’t about anxiety – it’s about action. Early checks give men control over their wellbeing and the chance to stay strong for life.

Book your Men’s Health Screening with Dr Cameron McKay at River Valley Doctors — and if you missed it, read our previous post The Silent Nature of Men’s Health Issues to understand why early detection matters.

 

 

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At River Valley Doctors in Singapore, we are dedicated to empowering our patients with expert health. Whether you’re looking for guidance on reproductive health, nutrition, or preventive care, our team of experienced healthcare professionals is here to support you.