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The Health Screenings Every Man Should Know About

11 6월 2025

June marks Men’s Health Month, a time to raise awareness about the unique health challenges men face and how small preventive steps can make a big impact. The truth is, many serious health issues men experience are preventable or manageable with early detection and the support of a trusted primary care provider.

Yet studies show men often delay care. In fact, the gap between how long American men and women live is now the widest it’s been in over 25 years. A 2023 study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) reported that the average life expectancy gap rose to 5.8 years in 2021, which is the largest difference since 1996.

Researchers point to the COVID-19 pandemic, opioid overdose rates, and chronic disease as contributing factors. But one clear trend stood out: men tend to avoid or delay doctor visits. 

It doesn’t have to be that way.

Why Preventive Health Screenings Matter

A simple annual check-up can help detect health issues before they become serious. When you build a relationship with a primary care provider, they’ll get to know your health history, guide you through the right screenings, and help you make decisions that fit your life and your goals.

Here are a few of the most important preventive health screenings every man should know about:

1. Colon Cancer Screening. Colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when caught early. Your provider can help you determine whether a colonoscopy or another screening method is right for you.

2. Lung Cancer Screening. Start at age 50 if you have a history of long-term tobacco use. Early detection with a low-dose CT scan can significantly improve outcomes.

3. Prostate Cancer Screening. Start at age 50 (or earlier depending on risk factors). Talk to your provider about the risks and benefits of screening based on your personal and family health history.

4. Osteoporosis Screening. Recommended for men aged 50 to 64 with risk factors like long-term steroid use, low body weight, or prior fractures. Often thought of as a women’s issue, osteoporosis can affect men, too – especially with age.

The Power of a Primary Care Provider

The most important screening of all? The one that happens during your annual wellness visit. Your provider is trained to ask questions that might reveal underlying issues, even ones you haven’t noticed yet. They’ll help you stay up to date on vaccines, manage blood pressure and cholesterol, and support your overall well-being. 

Your provider can also connect you to Care Management support, mental health resources, and tools that make it easier to take care of your health your way.

Let’s Close the Gap Together

Every man deserves to live a long, healthy life. It starts with showing up for yourself one check-up, one screening, and one honest conversation at a time.

If you’re not sure where to start, we can help you find a provider or connect with a care navigator. At Providence Health Plan, we’re here to support your whole health, every step of the way.

If you are a Providence Health Plan member looking for a provider, you can search here to find one who’s right for you.