Crossing the age of 40 is a significant life milestone, especially for men. After this age, hormonal and metabolic changes in the body begin to accelerate, directly impacting mental, physical, and emotional health. Today's fast-paced life, stress, and an unhealthy lifestyle further increase these risks. In such a situation, timely health checkups are not only a means of preventing diseases but can also be the key to living a long and healthy life.
1. Heart Health Check: Heart Health is Paramount
After the age of 40, the risk of heart diseases increases. The process of cholesterol accumulation in the arteries accelerates at this age, leading to problems like heart attack, stroke, and high blood pressure.
Essential Tests:
- Lipid Profile Test: This test provides information on the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood.
- ECG (ECG) and echocardiography are also beneficial to undergo periodically.
Benefit: Early detection and timely treatment of heart diseases.
2. Blood Sugar Test: Diabetes Check is Mandatory
As age increases, the body's insulin sensitivity decreases, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes. This risk is even greater if there is a lack of physical activity in the lifestyle.
Essential Tests:
- Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS)
- HbA1c test (average blood sugar test for 3 months)
Benefit: Early detection of diabetes and assistance in blood sugar control.
3. Liver and Kidney Function Tests: Monitoring Internal Organs
The liver and kidneys are the most important organs in our body, which remove toxins from the body and control metabolism. After the age of 40, the pressure on these organs increases, especially if there is a habit of alcohol or smoking.
Essential Tests:
- LFT (Liver Function Test)
- KFT (Kidney Function Test)
Benefit: Timely detection and prevention of liver and kidney related diseases.
4. Cancer Screening: Don't Ignore This Risk
After the age of 40, the risk of prostate, colorectal, mouth, throat, and lung cancer increases in men, especially if there is a family history or if the person smokes or consumes alcohol.
Essential Screening:
- PSA test (for prostate cancer)
- Skin cancer check (if you spend a lot of time in the sun)
- Mouth, throat, and lung check (for those who consume tobacco)
Benefit: Treatment is more effective if cancer is detected in the early stages.
5. Keep an Eye on Blood Pressure and BMI
High blood pressure is a 'silent killer'. It can slowly damage the heart, kidneys, eyes, and brain. Similarly, an increase in Body Mass Index (BMI) can also be an indication of diabetes and heart diseases.
Essential Measurements:
- Blood Pressure measurement (BP)
- BMI check (according to weight and height)
Benefit: Addressing problems related to obesity and hypertension in a timely manner.
6. Eye, Ear, and Bone Checkups are also Necessary
After the age of 40, problems related to the retina, glaucoma, and hearing loss become common. Also, bone strength decreases.
Essential Tests:
- Eye Test (Retinal Check-up)
- Hearing Test
- BMD (Bone Mineral Density) Test
Benefit: Managing vision and hearing problems in a timely manner and maintaining b bones.
7. Mental Health and Testosterone Level Monitoring
After 40, many men experience stress, sleep problems, and complaints related to sexual health. This may be related to testosterone deficiency and mental health.
Essential Tests:
- Testosterone Level test
- Mental Wellness Screening (if there are constant mood swings, lack of sleep, or anxiety)
Benefit: Maintaining mental balance and hormone balance.
Additional Advice for a Healthy Life
- Exercise regularly (at least 30 minutes daily)
- Stay away from smoking and alcohol
- Eat a fiber-rich and low-fat diet
- Maintain sleep time and quality
- Get a health checkup once a year
The age of 40 is not an age to stop, but an age of a new beginning. But this is only possible if we are vigilant about our health. By adopting regular checkups, a balanced diet, and an active lifestyle, we can protect ourselves from many diseases. Remember, timely checkups can make your future safe and healthy. So, consult a doctor today and start the necessary health checkups.
