Man up your health: guide to men's health checks

Health checks might not top your to-do list, but they’re the key to catching issues before they become problems. This guide tackles the big issues—heart, bowel, prostate, and bone health—breaking down what you need to know and when to book that all-important check-up.

Heart health: Why it matters and how to protect it

Did you know that coronary heart disease is one of the leading causes of illness for Australian men? The risk of heart, stroke, or vascular diseases increases with age, making it essential to take steps to protect your heart—the body’s most vital organ.

The good news is there are plenty of simple, practical ways to look after your heart and improve your overall health:

Get regular heart health checks by talking to your healthcare professional about your blood pressure and cholesterol.

• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats like those found in nuts, seeds, and olive oil.
• Swap fatty cuts of meat and processed meat for heart-healthy options like fish.
• Move your body regularly with activities you enjoy, such as walking, swimming, or cycling.
• Manage stress by exploring techniques like mindfulness.

Bowel screening: Early detection is key

Taking care of your bowel health is key to staying well, especially as you get older. Did you know that 1 in 13 men will develop bowel cancer in their lifetime? The good news is that early detection through regular screenings can make a huge difference.

Once you turn 45, it’s recommended to have a bowel screening test every two years to catch any changes early. You can request your free bowel screening kit online or over the phone. If bowel cancer runs in your family, talk to your healthcare professional about starting screenings even earlier.

You can also support your bowel health with some simple lifestyle habits:

• Focus on fibre: a diet high in fibre helps keep things moving and supports a healthy gut. Include whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, and nuts in your meals.
• Stay hydrated: drinking plenty of water is essential when increasing your fibre intake to ensure everything works smoothly.
• Eat a varied diet: aim for a colourful plate with a mix of whole, nutrient-rich foods to support overall gut health.
• If you notice any changes in bowel habits or have concerns, talk to your healthcare professional.

Prostate health: Check your balls

Your prostate or testes might not be a topic you’re eager to discuss, but it is important to monitor and look out for any changes or symptoms.

Changes to your prostate occur as you age and this can start happening in your thirties (or even earlier). Monitor for symptoms and have open conversations with your healthcare professional if you notice any of the following:

• Trouble starting or maintaining a steady flow of urine.
• A frequent or urgent need to urinate, especially at night.
• Pain or burning during urination.
• Cloudy urine or traces of blood in your urine.
• Lumps or changes to the testicles.

Bone health: The key to staying strong

When we think of osteoporosis, we often think of women, but it’s also a concern for men—especially as we age. Your bones reach their peak strength in your early 20s, and from there, bone density starts to gradually decrease. But the good news is that you can take action now to keep your bones strong.

Individuals who are over 50 and have risk factors for weak or brittle bones should discuss a bone density test with their healthcare professional. Risk factors may include family history, low calcium and vitamin D as well as other medical conditions and lifestyle factors.

Here’s how to keep your bones strong and healthy:

• Eat calcium-rich foods to form and maintain strong bones. Dairy products like milk, cheese and yoghurt provide calcium. Plant based options include tofu, cooked soybeans, sesame seeds, bok choy and calcium fortified plant milks.
• Get outside for some sunshine to boost your vitamin D level, which is vital for calcium absorption.
• Incorporate strength training into your exercise routine.

Health checklist 

Here are the key health checks to have on your radar.

Early adulthood (18–40 years)

• Testicular self-examinations: perform these monthly to check for lumps or changes.
• Skin checks: using a full length mirror, regularly inspect your body for any new or changed spots.
• Sexual health: if sexually active, talk to your healthcare professional about an annual sexual health screening.
• Blood pressure: get this checked by your healthcare professional at least every two years if you’re under 40 with no history of high blood pressure.
• Regular dental check-ups every 6 to 12 months.

Middle adulthood (40–65 years)

• Continue regular skin checks, sexual health screens, testicular self examinations and dental check ups.
• Heart health check: from age 45, regular heart health checks can help prevent heart disease. For First Nations People, it’s recommended that heart checks start from age 30.
• Bowel screening: every two years from age 45, bowel cancer screening can catch early signs of this preventable disease.
• Bone density: Healthy Bones Australia recommends that men over 50 with risk factors for osteoporosis should have their bone density checked.
• Prostate health: talk to your doctor about prostate checks and if they are required for you.
• Eye tests: get your eyes tested every two years to monitor your vision and to detect conditions like glaucoma or macular degeneration.

Additional checks for late adulthood (65+ years)

In addition to the checks you start in middle adulthood, it’s recommended that those aged 65 or over also complete an annual eye and hearing test.

The bottom line

With these practical tips and checklists, it’s time to take charge of your health and book that overdue check-up. Your future self will thank you.

Related articles:

• Healthy habits to help with belly fat
• Men's mental health
• Important nutrients for men

Reviewed by Healthylife health experts January 2025.