Men's health checklist: what you should be checking at your age

Staying on top of your health means more than eating well and keeping active.

Most men only think about health checks when something feels wrong, but many of the most useful ones can be done quickly and give you peace of mind for years to come. By making health checks part of your routine, you create a record that helps you notice changes earlier and make small adjustments before they turn into bigger issues.

Why men’s health checks matter

Not all health problems make themselves known straight away. High blood pressure, for example, can cause no obvious symptoms for years, yet still increase your risk of serious illness. Likewise, cholesterol and blood sugar levels can climb silently until they become a concern.

Regular checks mean you’re less likely to be caught off guard. They also give you confidence. Knowing your numbers and understanding your baseline helps you make choices with more confidence, whether that’s changing how you eat, adjusting your exercise routine or simply staying reassured that things are on track.

Your health in your 20s and 30s

This stage of life is often when men feel at their physical peak, but it’s also the best time to lay the groundwork for long-term health. Even if you feel fit and well, routine tests give you a baseline to track changes as you get older.

What to check in your 20s and 30s

• Blood pressure: High blood pressure can develop earlier than many realise and often shows no signs until it’s advanced.

• Cholesterol: Even in your 20s and 30s, levels can rise due to diet, inactivity, or genetics.

• Body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference: Useful indicators of metabolic health and future risk of diabetes.

• Blood sugar: Particularly important if diabetes runs in your family.

• Testicular health: Testicular cancer is most common between ages 15 and 49, so regular self-checks are vital.

• Hormone levels: If you’re experiencing fatigue, low mood or changes in sex drive, testing testosterone and related markers with a hormone profile provides useful insights.

Why it matters

The main benefit of health checks in your 20s and 30s is prevention. Work pressures, disrupted sleep, alcohol and less-than-ideal eating habits can all have knock-on effects. Spotting raised cholesterol or blood pressure early gives you the chance to turn things around with lifestyle changes.

It’s also a time when many men think about fertility and family planning. Understanding your reproductive health can help if you’re planning ahead.

Your health in your 40s

Your 40s often bring new responsibilities at work and home, which can increase stress and affect lifestyle habits. This decade is also when early warning signs of long-term conditions may start to appear.

What to check in your 40s

• All the checks from your 20s and 30s

• Prostate health: A PSA blood test may be considered, particularly if you have a family history of prostate issues.

• Liver function: Helpful if you drink regularly or take long-term medication.

• Thyroid function: Imbalances can affect energy, mood, and weight.

• Hormone profile: Testosterone decline may begin to show up.

Why it matters

In your 40s, metabolic health becomes increasingly important. This is when risks for diabetes, high cholesterol and heart disease often emerge. Monitoring hormone levels is also worthwhile, as symptoms like low energy or changes in libido aren’t always “just ageing.”

Being proactive now can delay or even prevent the onset of chronic conditions later.

Your health in your 50s

This is the decade when health checks become central to maintaining wellbeing. Age-related conditions are more common, but many can be managed well when caught early.

What to check in your 50s

• All the checks from your 40s

• Bowel cancer screening: Typically offered from your 50s, although earlier if you have risk factors.

• Bone density: Osteoporosis isn’t just a women’s issue - men can be affected too.

• Kidney function: Blood tests can reveal subtle changes in kidney health.

• Cardiovascular checks: An ECG or heart health assessment may be suggested if risk factors are present.

Why it matters

Heart disease, bowel cancer and osteoporosis are the big conditions to look out for in your 50s. Early detection not only improves treatment outcomes but also gives you more options to manage them through lifestyle. Regular checks help you stay active and independent as you get older.

Your health in your 60s and beyond

In your 60s and later years, the focus shifts towards preserving independence, mobility and cognitive health. Checks are about more than just extending life; they’re about supporting the quality of life you want to maintain.

What to check in your 60s

• All the checks from your 50s

• Hearing and vision tests: These play a big role in safety, communication and social engagement.

• Cognitive health: Monitoring memory and focus changes helps track brain health.

• Vitamin D and B12: Deficiencies are more common and can affect energy, bones and mood.

• Mobility and fall risk: Bone, muscle and joint checks can help prevent accidents.

Why it matters

Falls, memory changes and sensory decline can have a big impact on independence. Regular checks and small adjustments - like vitamin supplementation, strength training or hearing support, help protect your wellbeing and daily confidence.

Signs not to ignore at any age

Routine checks are important, but it’s equally vital to pay attention to how you feel. Don’t ignore:

• Unexplained weight changes

• Persistent fatigue

• Ongoing digestive issues

• Lumps or unexplained pain

• Changes in sexual health

• Chest discomfort or breathlessness

These can appear at any age and are a reason to get checked sooner.

Taking charge of your health

Whether you’re in your 20s or your 60s, staying informed means you can act early and take steps that keep you feeling your best. Blood tests are one of the easiest ways to get a clear snapshot of your health. They can track cholesterol, blood sugar, liver and kidney function, hormone balance, vitamin levels, and more.

A Health MOT from Bluecrest Wellness brings together key tests in one simple package, helping you build a detailed picture of your health at any stage of life.

Men often delay health checks until symptoms become difficult to ignore. But making screening part of your routine can give you peace of mind and help you make small, practical changes that protect your health long term.

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