Health Care, Insight

A Look at Health Screenings

Posted on by yun
06
Dec

Screenings and tests play a crucial role in identifying potential health problems before they become serious. While men are often less likely than women to undergo regular diagnostic screenings, especially at a younger age, these screenings become increasingly essential as men age, according to Dr. Paul Heinzelmann, a primary care physician at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital. There are various screening tests available for a range of potential health issues, falling into two main categories: those that almost all men should undergo and those that men should consider based on individual health factors.

Get these

Screenings for various health conditions are important for maintaining overall well-being. Most doctors follow screening guidelines from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), which reviews the value of tests based on the latest scientific evidence. Several screening tests are recommended for men to detect potential health issues early on:

  • Colon Cancer: Screening is recommended for individuals aged 45 to 75, and decisions for those aged 76 to 85 depend on factors like life expectancy, overall health, and past screenings. Colonoscopy is the gold standard, while other options include flexible sigmoidoscopy, CT colonography, and stool-based tests.
  • Diabetes: Adults, especially those with a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or higher, should get screened for type 2 diabetes starting at age 35. Blood glucose tests or non-fasting hemoglobin A1c levels are common diagnostic methods.
  • Hepatitis C: All adults up to age 79 should get a one-time blood test for hepatitis C, especially those with a history of injected drug use.
  • High Blood Pressure: Annual blood pressure checks are recommended. Elevated blood pressure is defined as a systolic measurement of 120 to 129 and a diastolic measurement lower than 80. Readings of 130/80 mm Hg or higher are considered high blood pressure.
  • HIV: Men up to age 65 and those older than 65 with multiple sexual partners or new relationships should undergo at least a one-time blood test for HIV infection.

Regular screenings help identify potential health problems early, enabling timely intervention and management.

Give these tests a pass

Routine screening for certain conditions is not recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) due to insufficient evidence supporting their effectiveness in asymptomatic individuals. These conditions and screenings include:

  • Pancreatic, Testicular, and Thyroid Cancers: Routine screenings for these cancers are not recommended without symptoms.
  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Routine screening for COPD is not recommended in asymptomatic individuals.
  • Prostate Cancer (PSA Testing): The USPSTF recommends against PSA testing for prostate cancer in men aged 70 and older. For men aged 55 to 69, the decision for PSA testing is individual, and it’s advisable to consult with a doctor.
  • Routine Electrocardiograms (ECGs): Routine ECGs are not recommended for screening in the absence of symptoms or special risks.
  • Mouth Exams for Cancer: Routine mouth exams for cancer are not recommended in asymptomatic individuals.
  • Tests for Vitamin D Deficiency, Hearing Loss, Sleep Apnea, Osteoporosis (in Men), and Celiac Disease: These screenings have insufficient evidence of more benefit than potential harm for routine use in asymptomatic individuals.

It’s important to note that individual risks, symptoms, and special considerations may warrant these screenings in specific cases. Therefore, decisions about screening tests should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.

Consider these

In addition to recommended screenings, men at increased risk for specific conditions should consider the following tests, as advised by Dr. Heinzelmann:

1. Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Screening:

  • Target Population: Men aged 65 to 75 who have ever smoked.
  • Test: One-time ultrasound to check for swelling in the lower section of the aorta.
  • Symptoms: Pulsating feeling near the navel, chest pain, lower back pain, or pain above the kidneys.

2. Hepatitis B Screening:

  • Target Population: Individuals at higher risk of hepatitis B infection.
  • Test: Blood test to screen for hepatitis B.
  • High-Risk Individuals: Those who are HIV-positive, have a history of injected drug use, share a household with someone with hepatitis B, and men in same-sex relationships.

3. Lung Cancer Screening:

  • Target Population: Adults aged 50 to 80 who have a history of smoking (equivalent to a pack a day for 20 years) and currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years.
  • Test: Annual lung low-dose CT scan.

It’s important to discuss with a healthcare provider to determine individual risk factors and whether these screenings are appropriate for specific individuals.

yun