The importance of preventive health screenings: A universal approach

As we approach Men’s Health Week in June, it’s an opportune time to emphasize the critical role of preventive health screenings. While the focus may be on men’s health, the importance of these screenings extends to everyone — men and women alike.

Preventive health screenings are essential for early detection and management of various health conditions, including cardiovascular health, fatty liver disease and several forms of cancer. By prioritizing these screenings, we can take proactive steps toward maintaining optimal health and wellbeing.

Here are a few examples of conditions for which preventive health screenings can be particularly helpful in minimizing potential risk factors that may later impact our health.

Cardiovascular health

Cardiovascular disease remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, affecting both men and women. Regular screenings can help identify risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes, which are crucial for preventing heart disease and stroke.

• Blood pressure checks: High blood pressure often has no symptoms but can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Regular monitoring can help manage and reduce the risk of heart disease
• Cholesterol tests: High levels of LDL cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease. Routine cholesterol tests can guide dietary and lifestyle changes to maintain healthy levels
• Diabetes screenings: Diabetes is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Early detection through blood glucose tests can lead to effective management and reduce the risk of complications

Fatty liver disease

Fatty liver disease, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcohol-related fatty liver disease (AFLD), is increasingly common and often asymptomatic in its early stages. Regular screenings are vital for early detection and intervention.

• Liver function tests: Blood tests that measure liver enzymes can indicate liver inflammation or damage, prompting further investigation
• Imaging tests: Ultrasound, CT scans and MRI can visualize fat accumulation in the liver, aiding in early diagnosis
• Fibrosis assessment: Tests like FibroScan measure liver stiffness, helping to assess the degree of fibrosis or scarring, which is crucial for preventing progression to more severe liver conditions

Cancer screenings

Cancer screenings are essential for early detection and treatment, significantly improving outcomes. Certain cancers have specific screenings that are recommended for both men and women.

• Prostate cancer: Men over 50 are advised to undergo prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests to detect prostate cancer early. Early diagnosis can lead to better management and treatment options
• Colorectal cancer: Both men and women over 50 should consider regular colonoscopies to detect colorectal cancer. Early detection through a FIT (Faecal Immunochemical Test)* and colonoscopies can prevent the progression of the disease

Lifestyle

It's important to prioritize your health and wellbeing, focusing on lifestyle elements such as nutrition, alcohol and exercise. Public health guidance provides information about best practices for a healthy lifestyle. This, along with preventative screenings, could help reduce the risk of longer-term health concerns or better manage them once identified.

Note: Consult with your doctor or local physician to understand what's available and locally relevant. You could also liaise with your employer to understand what they have available through employee benefits and medical plans.

*FIT (Faecal Immunochemical Test) can be used as part of cancer screening (ages 50+) or for early detection for those with some symptoms.