Author: Deepti Dogra

Many men fall prey to the grip of porn addiction, which is a common problem. As they increasingly indulge in pornography, it can become an obsession that disrupts their daily lives and relationships. In this article, we will explore various treatment options for men struggling with porn addiction.

Porn addiction is a common challenge for men, often beginning in their teenage years. While occasional viewing can be considered a form of entertainment for men, it can escalate into a problem when it consumes their entire day, causing them to neglect their responsibilities and personal lives.

Recent studies indicate that up to 65% of young adult men and 18% of young women watch porn at least once a week. However, like any behavior, when taken to excess, it can turn into an addiction. Fortunately, there are treatments available for men who wish to break free from this obsession.

Treatment Options for Porn Addiction:

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is an effective method for uncovering the root causes of porn addiction. It allows individuals to explore the underlying factors that led to their addiction. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a common approach, helps men understand their relationship with porn and develop strategies to overcome it. Collaborating with a mental health professional can lead to long-term recovery.

Support Group Therapy

Participating in a support group can be invaluable for those seeking to overcome porn addiction. These peer meetings provide a sense of community with a shared goal—freedom from porn addiction. Members share their experiences, insights, and encouragement anonymously, contributing to long-term recovery.

Medication

In some cases, an underlying health issue may trigger porn addiction. Co-occurring disorders can be treated with medication, combined with counseling. This approach, known as Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), has shown effectiveness in addressing substance use and related psychological disorders.

Holistic Treatment

Holistic treatment takes a comprehensive approach, considering the overall well-being of an individual rather than just treating the addiction as a standalone issue. It incorporates traditional therapy with complementary and alternative medicine, focusing on techniques such as hypnosis, lifestyle education, spiritual counseling, personal training, acupuncture, homeopathy, massage therapy, and naturopathy.

Conclusion

If you suspect you are grappling with porn addiction, these treatment options are essential. Neglecting to seek help can lead to detrimental consequences, including lower self-esteem, reduced sexual satisfaction, and impaired relationship quality. Fortunately, these treatments can provide the support and guidance needed to break free from the grasp of porn addiction.

Keynotes:

65% Men:https://counseling.utdallas.edu/pornaddiction/

Written by: Deepti Dogra

Edited by: Aniket Joshi

When asked about a doctor for women, the response is typically a gynecologist. However, when the question is, “Who is the doctor for men?” responses are often met with confusion or silence. Let’s delve into this topic.

In our societies, men are often encouraged to “man up” and be strong, which can lead to them keeping their feelings and concerns hidden, including those related to their health. Many men tend to visit a general physician for all their health needs. But is this the right approach? The question that arises is: who is the doctor for men that they can turn to for their private concerns?

Consulting a general physician for cuts and wounds is a reasonable decision for men. However, when it comes to issues concerning the urinary system, a general physician may not provide all the answers that men seek. This is where a urologist comes into the picture, capable of addressing these concerns more effectively.

Understanding what urology is, what a urologist does, and how they can help is essential. Let’s break it down.

What is Urology?

In scientific terms, urology is a branch of medicine that deals with diseases of the male urinary system, encompassing the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. In everyday language, urology addresses anything that men may not feel comfortable discussing with a general physician or anyone they’re not at ease with. Additionally, urology deals with the male reproductive system, including the penis, testes, scrotum, and prostate. Sexual health problems can cause significant stress in a man’s life, and urology is vital for addressing health issues in these areas.

Dr. Raman Tanwar, a urologist at Jyoti Hospital and Urocentre in Gurgaon, explains, “Urology is a super-specialty branch of surgery that deals with problems of the urinary system in both men and women and the genital system of men. These commonly include issues related to the kidney, kidney stones, prostate, sexual problems, and various cancers.”

Urology addresses various men’s health issues, including:

1. Conditions of the testes.
2. Low testosterone and male-specific hormone deficiencies.
3. Male infertility.
4. Premature ejaculation.
5. Conditions of the penis.
6. Penile cancer.
7. Testicular cancer.
8. Prostate cancer.
9. Erectile dysfunction.
10. Elevated PSA levels.
11. Enlarged prostate.
12. Frequent nighttime urination.
13. Overactive bladder.
14. Chronic pelvic pain.
15. Inflammation of the prostate.
16. Vasectomy and vasectomy reversal.

Men can turn to urologists for their urinary and reproductive system health issues. Urologists serve as the doctors for men in these cases, helping them address their problems.

What is a Urologist?

To understand how a urologist can assist men with various health issues, it’s crucial to know who a urologist is. Urologists are medical professionals with expertise in treating diseases and conditions affecting the urinary system, including the bladder, kidneys, ureters, urethra, and adrenal glands. In men, they handle all illnesses related to the penis, prostate, and testes. Urologists can also perform surgeries to address urinary tract blockages or cancers when necessary. Men commonly seek their expertise for issues such as erectile dysfunction, an enlarged prostate, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer.

Dr. Tanwar clarifies, “A urologist is a surgeon who has received specialized training in urology and exclusively deals with surgical diseases of the genito-urinary system. Urologists may further specialize in areas like oncology, endourology, pediatric urology, and more. Kidney transplantation is also an essential aspect of urology.”

Urologists serve as the doctors for men, diagnosing and treating diseases in the urinary and reproductive systems. It is crucial for men to be open and honest with their urologist, discussing their problems without shame or guilt.

When Should You See a Urologist?

Men often tend to dismiss discomfort or symptoms related to their urinary or reproductive health, sometimes attributing them to minor issues. However, there are numerous reasons why a man should consult a urologist. Some of the most common reasons include:

1. Difficulty in urination, painful urination, cloudy or bloody urine.
2. Frequent urination or changes in urination habits.
3. Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.
4. Infertility.
5. Pelvic pain.
6. Urinary leakage.
7. Painful bladder syndrome.
8. Kidney stones.
9. Kidney diseases.
10. Inflammation of the prostate gland.
11. Urinary tract infections.
12. Cancers of the bladder, kidneys, penis, testicles, and adrenal and prostate glands.

Symptoms that suggest the need for a urologist’s evaluation include blood in the urine, frequent urination, lower back, pelvis, or side pain, pain or burning during urination, difficulty urinating, urine leakage, and weak urine flow.

Dr. Tanwar emphasizes, “If you experience difficulty urinating, notice blood in your urine, have cloudy urine, or frequently feel the urge to use the restroom, it’s essential to consult a urologist as soon as possible.”

What to Expect When You See a Urologist

If you’ve decided to visit a urologist but are unsure about what to expect, rest assured that the process is straightforward and systematic. When you consult a urologist, they will typically request various tests to identify the underlying health issue. These may include imaging tests like CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasounds to locate the issue, and urine tests to check for bacteria and other diseases. These tests are readily available at diagnostic labs, making them convenient for patients. If the issue appears to be more severe, a biopsy may be necessary to check for cancer and other health problems. The urologist will also inquire about your medical history and perform a physical examination.

Conclusion

For men experiencing health issues related to urination, erectile function, or urinary leakage, consulting their family doctor may not be the most suitable option. A urologist is the best doctor for men to turn to when facing any of these symptoms. Early consultation with a urologist can lead to earlier treatment and improved health outcomes.

Written by: Deepti Dogra

Edited by: Aniket Joshi

We all know that condoms are only 98% safe during sexual intercourse. There can be a chance that you might impregnate your partner even after using a condom during sex. And if you are not planning to have a family, that can be traumatic, especially if you go through the process of abortion. This is when the procedure of vasectomy comes into the picture.

Intimacy is a part of any romantic relationship, whether you are married or not. Sex makes a relationship stronger as well as more stable, and it often eliminates certain issues in your relationship. It is said that the more sex a couple has, the better their relationship is. And of course, if you want to stall having kids, or be sure that you don’t get any STIs or STDs, using condoms is considered the best method of protection.

However, condoms do not give a 100% guarantee of safe sex. As they are only 98% safe (as Ross was told, “Condoms only work like 97% of the time”), there are chances that you might impregnate your partner, and it may lead to the process of abortion.

The best option for you, in this case, is getting a vasectomy, which will not hamper your sex life and you won’t have to worry about impregnating your partner as well. Globally, around 33 million married women from the ages of 15 to 49 (less than 3%) rely on their partner’s vasectomy for contraception.

If you have no idea about the procedure of vasectomy and are having doubts about it, let us explain:

What is a Vasectomy?

A vasectomy, also called male sterilization or even male birth control, is a minor surgery that helps prevent pregnancy. It blocks your sperm from getting into your semen when you ejaculate or get an orgasm after the sexual activity. Once there is no sperm in your semen, you simply cannot impregnate your partner. It is nearly 100% effective in preventing pregnancy.

If you opt for a vasectomy, it will generally take about 30 minutes to get the procedure done, and you can get discharged from the hospital on the same day. Theoretically, a vasectomy is reversible; however, it does not always work. So you should go for it only if you are sure that you do not want to have kids.

Effectiveness of a Vasectomy

Although a vasectomy is one of the best methods of preventing pregnancy, there can be a small chance that you still might impregnate your partner. Another factor that has to be kept in mind is that it is not immediately effective.

The existing sperm in your body needs to be cleared out, and that can take up to three months. Keep following up with your urologist to check on your sperm count as time goes on. Do not assume that the procedure of vasectomy has been effective until your doctor says so.

Also, please keep in mind that a vasectomy does not protect you from STIs and STDs. Hence, if you have multiple sexual partners, it is advisable that you still use a condom.

Risks of a Vasectomy

While vasectomy is a permanent procedure, a reversal might be possible but is not always an option. At times, it can also be more complicated than a vasectomy.

Potential short-term symptoms of a vasectomy include swelling, bruising, and some discomfort. These symptoms go away on their own after about two weeks.

However, if you are dealing with an infection or Hematoma, you need to see your urologist as soon as possible. An infection can cause fever, redness, or pain in the scrotum. While Hematoma can cause bleeding under the skin, which will look like a dark bruise and can also lead to swelling.

Other Risks

1. Granuloma. Sperm that leaks into tissue from the Vas Deferens tube is what caused this lump in the scrotum.
2. Post-vasectomy pain syndrome. This is a chronic issue that a small minority of individuals deal with after a vasectomy. The effects of the surgery, such as nerve compression, may be to blame for this chronic pain condition. Treatment for post-vasectomy pain syndrome includes pain reduction, medication, and surgery.
3. Procedure failure. This can occasionally happen. If 1,000 vasectomies are performed, it’s estimated that 11 will likely fail over two years.
4. Regretting the procedure: This can occur more commonly in individuals who get a vasectomy before the age of 30.

What to Expect?

Although a vasectomy is a minor surgery to prevent pregnancy, it is still an operation, and you will feel some pain and discomfort. While over-the-counter medications should work, it is important that you talk about this procedure with your Urologist. Some of the things you need to know are:

1. Most individuals can return to desk work, one day after the surgery.
2. Swelling and pain may occur for a few days after surgery. Holding an ice pack on the scrotum, and wearing supportive underwear like a jockstrap may help ease these symptoms.
3. It’s advised to avoid sexual intercourse, as well as strenuous activity, for three to seven days after the procedure.
4. A semen analysis is typically done 8 to 16 weeks following a vasectomy.

Conclusion

If you already have kids and do not plan to have more, then the procedure of vasectomy is good for you. However, if you are someone who is not very sure of it, then we recommend that you go through all the pros and cons and consult your Urologist before taking the steps ahead.

Source:

33 million married women rely on their partner’s vasectomy for contraception.

Written by: Deepti Dogra

Edited by: Aniket Joshi

As a man in his 40s, it’s crucial to be aware of the health issues you may face. Men’s health encompasses various gender-specific concerns, including testosterone production, sexual health, and an increased likelihood of engaging in risky behavior. Men often tend to avoid seeking medical advice, but many of the illnesses they face can be prevented. It’s a fact that men often prioritize their health less than they should, making them susceptible to potentially fatal diseases.

While regular medical checkups are essential, men in their 40s frequently avoid them, putting themselves at risk of developing diseases that may have been treatable if detected early. Additionally, men sometimes engage in excessive smoking and alcohol consumption, leading to chronic health problems.

With this in mind, we’ve compiled a list of health issues that men over 40 may encounter. Let’s explore these concerns:

Heart Disease

Each year, heart disease is responsible for 25% of all male deaths in the United States. What’s especially alarming is that it often progresses without noticeable symptoms until it results in sudden death. Approximately half of the men who die from heart disease never experience warning signs. Risk factors for heart disease include high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels, and smoking. Shockingly, 51% of American men have at least one of these risk factors. Other contributing factors to heart disease can be diabetes, obesity, poor dietary choices, physical inactivity, and excessive alcohol consumption.

According to Dr. Raman Tanwar, a Urologist and Andrologist at Jyoti Hospital, “Exercise has been likened to a ‘polypill’ due to its numerous benefits for cardiovascular risk factors and cardiovascular system health. Exercise enhances oxygen delivery to the heart muscle, and increased exercise capacity independently predicts greater survival in men.”

Cancer

The most prevalent types of cancer that affect men are skin, prostate, lung, and colorectal cancer. Lung cancer claims more lives in men than any other cancer, with cigarette smoking as the primary cause. Avoiding or quitting smoking is a critical step in preventing this type of cancer. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men, but it typically progresses slowly, and many men do not die from it. Testicular cancer is another significant concern, usually affecting men between the ages of 20 and 54.

Depression

While depression can affect both men and women, men often experience it differently. Depressed men may feel fatigued and irritable, lose interest in work, family, and hobbies, and have trouble sleeping. Alarmingly, depressed men are nearly four times more likely to die by suicide than women. Many men fail to recognize their depression and avoid seeking help due to a reluctance to discuss their emotions. Depression can affect men of all ages and backgrounds, with various factors contributing to the condition, including genetics, environmental stress, and illness. Fortunately, seeking help or treatment can lead to recovery from this mental health disorder.

Osteoporosis

Although osteoporosis predominantly affects women, it can impact men as well. Osteoporosis weakens the skeleton, making bones more susceptible to fractures. Millions of men in the U.S. suffer from this disease, with the most common fractures occurring in the hip, spine, and wrist. These fractures can lead to disabilities and are more likely to be fatal in men than women.

Sexual Health

Sexual health involves a man’s ability to fully engage in and enjoy sexual activity. Numerous factors influence men’s sexual health, including physical, psychological, social, and interpersonal aspects. Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can negatively affect men’s overall and sexual health. While preventative measures are available, not all men choose to utilize them. Reducing the risk of STDs involves knowing your partner’s sexual history, using latex condoms, and receiving vaccinations.

Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) refers to the inability to achieve or maintain an erection for satisfactory sexual activity. This condition becomes more common as men age and can result from factors such as stress, depression, low testosterone, and clogged arteries. Additionally, ED may serve as a warning sign of underlying heart disease or another serious medical issue.

Dr. Tanwar notes, “Studies indicate that approximately 1 in 2 men over the age of 50 experience some degree of erectile dysfunction (ED). While ED becomes more prevalent with age, it’s not solely age-related. The Massachusetts Male Aging Study (MMAS) reported an overall ED prevalence of 52% in non-institutionalized men aged 40–70 in the Boston area, with specific prevalence rates for minimal, moderate, and complete ED at 17.2%, 5.2%, and 9.6%, respectively.”

Conclusion

Regardless of their age, a man’s health should always be a top priority, as they have responsibilities to fulfill. Whether at 14 or 40, seeking treatment for any medical issue is crucial. Many men tend to hide their health problems, fearing that they’ll worry their families, only to undergo severe and painful treatments once the problems worsen. No matter how minor a health concern may seem, it’s always wise to consult a doctor to ensure it doesn’t escalate. If a physician recommends tests, don’t hesitate to undergo them, ensuring a healthy, disease-free life.

In the modern world, the importance of mental health has gained significant recognition. As men journey through life, they assume multifaceted roles, from brothers to husbands, fathers, and even grandfathers. Along this path, responsibilities accumulate, placing them at the heart of various family and societal expectations. Men are often seen as the pillars of the household, responsible for resolving every issue that arises, whether it’s ensuring children get to school on time or managing the laundry. Yet, amid these obligations, it’s essential to remember that men, like anyone else, need moments of tranquility, a space to express their emotions, and a healthy state of mind. This article provides a tailored guide endorsed by psychologists to help men safeguard their mental well-being, empowering them to lead a fulfilling life.

Here is some advice on mental health that psychologists have specifically recommended for men:

Open up and express yourself

While most men try to bottle up their feelings and emotions, feeling that men are supposed to be strong and tough, the truth is that only a courageous man is able to speak up about what is going on in his mind. A man should be able to talk about his feelings and emotions with the people he trusts, such as his friends, partner, parents, or a therapist if required. If you are struggling with a mental health disorder, then there should be at least one person with whom you can open up.

Dr. Moumita Nandy, a clinical psychologist from Delhi, says, “Men seek therapy for all sorts of reasons. Commonly, they go to therapy for help with mental health challenges like depression, general anxiety, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, or eating disorders, to name just a few examples. But you don’t need to be experiencing a serious mental health problem for therapy to be right for you. Many men go to therapy for help with things like marital or relationship conflict, lack of purpose or meaning in life, loneliness, important life transitions, separation or divorce, loss, and grief.”

Support Fellow Men

You might be feeling completely fine when it comes to your mental health; however, there might be another friend, colleague, or man in your family who is dealing with a mental health issue or just feeling low at some point in time. If you do notice a man around you dealing with a mental health problem, try to offer them support and a kind ear to talk to, no matter how awkward or alien it may feel to you. Every time you do this, the dangerous expectation for men to “man up” and “shut up” about their problems will seem more and more outdated and unhelpful.

Embrace your authentic self

While trying to “man up” by indulging in risky behavior, men often forget to be themselves in their life. Instead, they end up catcalling women, driving recklessly, and starting fights for no reason, just to show how manly they are. The truth is that just because you are a man, you do not have to behave in a reckless manner. In fact, you need to focus on yourself and find out what kind of person you are and whether you like such kind of behavior or not.

Limit alcohol and drug use

A lot of men drink alcohol or use recreational drugs as a way to relax or have fun, but some men can abuse substances and end up using them as a coping method for stress or other distress in their lives. Men are more likely to use drugs and alcohol as coping methods when they are not feeling well, instead of getting the help that they need. You may not even realize you are doing it, as some things are very much ingrained into our culture, for instance, binge drinking on the weekend. You should instead talk to a professional therapist to learn better-coping mechanisms that will actually help you out rather than using drugs or alcohol, which will only harm you.

Find enjoyable activities

In today’s era, life can be hectic and busy with so much work, which can cause some of us to feel tired and stressed. So, it is important to find an activity to help us decompress and relax in our own time. Whether it is trying out cooking new cuisines, learning a new skill, such as rock climbing, playing baseball in the park with friends, or getting stuck in a good book or magazine, it’s highly recommended that you find your very own fun and stress-relieving activity to help you feel your best.

Prioritize Exercise

When it comes to exercise, it should not be something that you have to do but something that you enjoy doing. As little as 10 minutes of brisk walking can increase your energy, and mental alertness, and help you stay in a positive mood. So whether you choose to sweat it out at the gym while running on the treadmill or go for a jog every morning, make sure that you do not miss out on your workout sessions.

Improve your sleep

Mental health and sleep are quite co-dependent. Regularly enjoying a good night’s sleep can help you feel less tired throughout the day, more able to cope with the tasks of daily life, feel confident with good self-esteem, and be less likely to be worried and stressed. Try to get a regular 7-9 hours of sleep a night by limiting your late-night device usage, doing some exercise during the day, eating a healthy diet, and making your bedroom sleep-friendly.

Dr. Nandy says, “A good night’s sleep is just as important as regular exercise and a healthy diet. Have a proper sleep schedule rather than waking up at different times, and try to meditate as well before you go to sleep. Have proper sleep hygiene, which includes not being active in front of any screen for at least half an hour before you go to bed. Good sleep hygiene is certainly required to have good mental health.”

Eat a balanced diet

As a man, you must be working, running here and there, doing odd jobs, and so much more, so your body certainly needs its fuel to get recharged. However, if you believe in eating junk food, such as burgers and pizzas, and prefer not to eat a healthy or balanced diet, then it will show up in your mental health. Healthy foods like fresh fruits and vegetables contain vitamins and minerals to nourish your brain, whereas a diet high in convenience and refined foods like sugary snacks and processed meat can be harmful to the brain. So the best choice for you is to eat healthy and have a balanced meal.

Conclusion

No man would like to feel low or go through a mental health disorder in his life. It can be really saddening to see a man go through this pain. So to ensure that you do not deal with any mental health problems, make sure that you follow the above-given tips to live a healthy life.

Dr. Nandy says, “Some of the habits that men should add to their lifestyle for good mental health are exercising, as it not only keeps a man fit physically but mentally as well. Also, he should indulge in his hobbies and not just work in his free time. Eating healthy is very important for a man, as a man is what he eats. And lastly, he should be social and should be able to talk about what he feels with the people he cares about.”

Written by: Deepti Dogra

Edited by: Aniket Joshi

Are you a man in your 40s and concerned about your well-being? We’ve compiled a list of important medical tests you should consider. While it’s true that prevention is better than cure, many men in their 40s are often too engrossed in their family and work responsibilities to prioritize their health. Regular medical check-ups are crucial for men, particularly those with families to care for, to ensure they remain healthy and free from diseases. Unfortunately, many men shy away from medical tests, believing they are perfectly healthy, only to discover later that they are suffering from a hidden ailment. These conditions can be serious or chronic, but early detection can make treatment more effective. The good news is that obtaining these medical tests is not a complicated task, and you can visit any hospital for a check-up.

With this in mind, we’ve compiled a list of vital medical tests that men in their 40s should undergo regularly:

Cholesterol Test

While a certain amount of cholesterol is necessary for brain and organ function, excessive cholesterol can clog arteries, leading to heart attacks and strokes. Testing your cholesterol levels is one of the best ways to assess your risk of heart disease. Men over 40 should have their cholesterol levels checked every four to six years. Those with diabetes, a history of heart disease, or a family predisposition to high cholesterol should be tested more frequently.

Colorectal Cancer Test

Colorectal cancer, the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, often begins with polyps in the colon or rectum before displaying symptoms. Regular medical tests can detect it early, making treatment easier. It’s advisable to start screening for colorectal cancer at the age of 45. However, if you have a family history of colorectal cancer or suffer from inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, consider starting earlier.

Hepatitis C Test

Hepatitis C (HCV) is a virus that can lead to severe liver infections. Fortunately, it is treatable when detected early through medical testing. Given the increasing number of infected individuals in the younger generation, it’s recommended that all men over 18 get tested at least once in their lifetime. Early detection can lead to effective and potentially life-saving treatment.

Diabetes Test

Over 34 million American adults suffer from Type 2 diabetes, a condition that can cause damage to blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, nerves, and increase the risk of heart disease and strokes. Men between 40 and 70 years who are overweight or obese should be tested for abnormal blood glucose levels during their annual physical exam. If the results are normal, another test is recommended every three years. The A1C test, a common diabetes screening, measures average blood sugar levels over several months. Levels over 6.5% may indicate diabetes, while levels between 5.7% and 6.4% suggest prediabetes, an increased risk of developing diabetes.

Prostate Cancer Test

Prostate cancer occurs when male hormones, particularly testosterone, stimulate the growth of cancer cells in the prostate. However, around 50% of prostate cancer diagnoses may involve treatments unnecessary for the patient’s health and may cause side effects like sexual dysfunction. Discuss suitable tests with a doctor to make an informed decision.

High Blood Pressure Test

High blood pressure increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and heart or kidney failure. It’s easily checked with a simple arm monitor, and treatment options, including medication and lifestyle changes, can prevent serious health issues. If your blood pressure is high, you’ll need regular rechecks.

Obesity Test

Obesity is linked to heart disease, diabetes, some cancers, and premature death in men. Your doctor will measure your weight and height annually to assess obesity. If your Body Mass Index (BMI) is 25 or higher, you’ll be asked to return for rechecks, and your doctor may recommend weight loss and lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise.

Lung Cancer Test

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the US, but early detection can lead to successful treatment. Age and smoking are the primary risk factors. If you are a current or former smoker, it is advisable to undergo annual lung cancer testing.

In Conclusion

while men in their 40s often find themselves absorbed in family and work commitments, they should not neglect their health. Health should remain a top priority for every man. Regular testing is essential for maintaining good health and ensuring a long and active life.

Written by: Deepti Dogra

Edited by: Aniket Joshi

If you are a man over 50 and uncertain about your health, we have a list of important medical tests that you should consider. Turning 50 is a significant milestone, and it’s worth celebrating. You’ve not only reached half a century but have also been making choices for your own well-being and that of your family. However, as you hit this crucial age, your body starts aging, making it more susceptible to certain diseases. It’s essential to prioritize your health and undergo regular medical tests to ensure you remain in good health and free from diseases.

Yet, many men in their 50s often believe they are completely healthy and invulnerable to illness. They avoid regular medical tests, often unaware of potential underlying health issues. The truth is, there are specific medical tests that every man in his 50s should consider to safeguard his health.

With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of medical tests that men in their 50s should undergo regularly. Take a look below:

Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) Test

All men are at risk of prostate cancer, but the risk increases for those in their 50s or older. The PSA test is a blood test used to measure the level of PSA in your bloodstream. Elevated PSA levels may indicate prostate cancer or an enlarged or inflamed prostate. Obtaining an accurate reading may require a rectal examination. If your PSA levels are 3 ng/mL or higher, your doctor might recommend a prostate biopsy. If the levels are below 1 ng/mL, you may need another PSA test around the age of 60.

Colonoscopy

If you are 50 years or older, your doctor will recommend a colonoscopy. You might need this test earlier if you have certain risk factors, such as Inflammatory Bowel Disorder (IBS) or a family history of colon cancer. A colonoscopy can help detect cancer or precancerous growths in the colon and rectum, often leading to an accurate diagnosis and treatment without major surgery.

Blood Pressure Test

High blood pressure (hypertension) is a significant concern for men over 50. It increases the risk of coronary artery disease, potentially leading to life-threatening events like heart attacks and strokes. Hypertension is often referred to as the “silent killer” because it often presents no symptoms. Regular diagnostic tests are crucial for early detection and controlling hypertension and its associated complications. If your blood pressure is normal, your doctor will likely check it annually. However, readings above 140/90 may require more frequent testing, especially if you have diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, or other health conditions.

Lipid Profile Test

A lipid profile test assesses the cholesterol content in your blood. Every man over the age of 20 should have this test every five years. If your cholesterol levels are within a safe range, you may not need another test for five years. However, if your levels are high, your doctor will recommend more frequent testing as you work to lower your cholesterol through diet, exercise, and other measures.

Blood Sugar Test

Men over 45 should have their blood sugar or glucose levels checked. This test is particularly important if you experience symptoms of high blood sugar, such as unintentional weight loss, slow wound healing, or excessive thirst. High blood sugar may be a sign of diabetes, which can lead to vision problems, kidney disorders, and an increased risk of coronary heart disease. If your blood sugar is normal, you can have the test every three years. If it’s high, your doctor will recommend more frequent checks and additional tests to assess your risk of diabetes.

Eye Test

Regular eye exams become more crucial as men enter their 50s. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, it’s essential to monitor any changes in your vision by consulting an ophthalmologist. These exams can also help detect vision issues that may develop at this age, such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Many eye-related problems may not exhibit symptoms until they have advanced. These exams are even more important if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of eye diseases. Consider getting an eye test every two years or as recommended by your doctor.

In conclusion

A man in his 50s has many responsibilities, including ensuring the well-being of his grown children. While you’re busy preparing for your future, don’t forget to prioritize your health by undergoing the essential medical tests listed above. This way, you can witness your children’s graduation and many other milestones in good health.

Written by: Deepti Dogra

Edited by: Aniket Joshi