There are several types of check-ups (general check-ups, eye tests, hearing tests) that everyone should have regularly carried out. At the same time, there are a couple of check-ups that every man should have carried out as they are vital to detect signs of disease in the early stages. A timely medical check-up can make all the difference.
Testicular self-examination
Testicular cancer
As testicular cancer affects men mainly between the ages of 20 and 39 years old, regular testicular self-examination is recommended from a young age to check for any early signs of cancer. The signs or symptoms can range from discomfort, pain, swelling or enlargement of a testicle or a hard lump in a testicle or in the groin area.
If any abnormality is noted, it is important to make an appointment to see a specialist as soon as possible for a thorough check-up. An early diagnosis can be reached by way of a physical examination, laboratory tests and biopsies. Testicular cancer is one of the most treatable of all cancers and most men make a full recovery, particularly if the cancer is diagnosed the early stages.
Urological check-ups
Prostate cancer
This type of check-up is recommended after the age of 40, if a person has not had a prostate cancer check-up previously. The tests that may be involved are the following:
- A complete urological examination
- Urological ultrasound
- Scrotal ultrasound
- PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test
With PSA tests, most prostate cancer is detected on time. Some of the symptoms linked to prostate cancer are:
- Difficulty passing urine
- Needing to urinate frequently
- Leaking urine
- Pain when ejaculating
- Lower back pain
- Discomfort during bowel movement
Again, this is another type of cancer that, if diagnosed in the early stages, is usually curable.
Apart from these specific check-ups for men, it is important to remember that once past the age of 50 years old, the risk of bowel cancer increases. For early detection, there are other check-ups that we will cover in a future article.
