Staying Healthy for the Long Haul: A Guide to Men’s Preventive Care

Men's health often doesn’t get the attention it deserves. With the demands of work, family and daily life, health concerns sometimes are put aside. However, caring for your health is crucial for living a long and happy life. While many men feel invincible, neglecting preventive care can lead to serious issues down the road.

“Preventive health is crucial,” says Dr. Sanjay Jain, a family medicine expert at Southwest General Medical Group. "Men are less likely to seek care, and many of the top causes of death in men are preventable with routine checkups and screenings."

Common Health Risks

When it comes to men’s health, heart disease is the leading cause of death, followed by cancer. Other serious conditions, such as diabetes, kidney failure and liver disease, also contribute to the health risks men face. "The good news is many of these conditions can be detected early," Dr. Jain explains. “For example, with regular exams, we can identify high blood pressure or irregular heartbeats—signs of heart disease. The earlier we catch these, the easier it is to treat and prevent.”

Even when it comes to cancer, early screenings can lead to more effective treatment. “You can’t predict cancer with certainty, but we know that early detection makes a huge difference in treatment success,” Dr. Jain adds.

Mental Health Matters, Too

In addition to physical health, men often neglect mental health—something that Dr. Jain stresses is just as important. "There’s a fine line between stress from work and family life, and it turning into something such as anxiety or depression. As a primary care physician, I see this more than people realize," says Dr. Jain. "It's important to recognize the signs early and address mental health the same way we approach physical health. You’d be surprised how many men go years without realizing they’re struggling."

When Should Men Start Seeing a Doctor?

While men in their 20s and 30s may feel invincible, Dr. Jain stresses the importance of starting checkups early. “Even if you feel healthy, it’s important to build that relationship with your primary care physician. At a younger age, we’re focusing on creating healthy habits—good nutrition, exercise and managing stress—rather than catching diseases. But the earlier you start, the more likely you are to catch issues before they become serious.”

As men enter their 40s and 50s, Dr. Jain explains that screenings for prostate cancer and colon cancer become essential. "Prostate cancer screenings often begin around aged 40 or 50, depending on family history. For colon cancer, screenings typically start at 45. The earlier we catch these, the better the outcomes."

“Some men fear procedures like colonoscopies,” Dr. Jain notes. "But today, there are non-invasive options for screening that can make the process much easier."

Building a Relationship with Your Doctor

One key point Dr. Jain makes is the value of developing a relationship with your primary care physician over time. “You’re not just visiting when you’re sick. You’re developing a partnership. Over time, you’ll feel more comfortable discussing personal health concerns. That trust helps me, as a doctor, to understand not only just your physical health but also your mental and emotional well-being,” he says.

“I always tell my patients, ‘We’re here for you. I’m not here to dictate what you do. I’m here to support your health in any way I can,’” Dr. Jain adds.

The Power of Regular Checkups

Ultimately, regular checkups can catch small problems before they become big ones. "I had a patient in his 40s who came in because he felt fatigued and was urinating more than usual. His wife encouraged him to get checked out," Dr. Jain recalls. "It turned out he had diabetes. We got him on the right treatment, and he’s in better health now than he’s ever been."

Dr. Jain urges men to take control of their health by making those regular checkups a priority. "You never know what might come up. The sooner we catch something, the better. It’s about being proactive, not reactive," he says.

Moving Forward: Prioritize Your Health

Men, don’t wait for something to go wrong. Dr. Jain’s advice is simple: “Go see your primary care physician. Even if you feel healthy, there’s no harm in a checkup. It can help you stay healthy for longer and give you the peace of mind that you’re on the right track.”

By prioritizing prevention, building relationships with your doctor and staying informed about your health, you can ensure a longer, healthier life. Start today—because your health is worth it.

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