What is a men’s health check?

A men’s health check is a screening service that can detect the early warning signs of a range of health conditions affecting men, such as diabetes and prostate cancer.

Using the results of a men's health check, specialists can build a clear picture of what your current health is like and identify any future risks. After you have taken the tests and received the results, you will be provided with support and guidance to help you to stay healthy.

What health checks does this service offer?

The full range of men's health tests and checks vary between clinics, but it usually involves the following:

• Measuring your height and weighing you.
• Checking your risk of having a heart attack or stroke.
• Lifestyle assessment including diet, exercise, alcohol intake and smoking.
• Full medical history.
• Prostate and testicular cancer screening.
• Chest X-ray.
• Blood and urine tests.
• Checking your lung function.
• Cardiac tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG).
• Blood pressure test.
• Cholesterol tests.

Why are men's health tests done?

Early detection of certain health conditions allows for rapid treatment and regular monitoring which offers you the best chance of recovery.

Some men are more at risk of developing certain diseases. For example, if you have a family history of a particular disease then you might be at a higher risk of developing it too at some point. Similarly, certain symptoms that men often ignore, such as recurrent urinary tract infections, can indicate underlying health problems such as benign prostate enlargement or prostate cancer. Your health check will be able to identify these health risks.

What health conditions can a men's health check detect?

Men’s health checks screen thoroughly for a range of conditions from heart disease to prostate cancer. Early detection of serious health conditions is central to this service. Below is a list of conditions that a men's health check look for:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Diabetes
• High cholesterol
• Thyroid and liver disease
• Heart disease
• Prostate cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Erectile dysfunction
• Bladder cancer

What happens before and after a men's health check?

Usually, you will be asked to fill out some kind of pre-screen questionnaire to help the doctor decide which screens are recommendable to you. You will then be offered a series of tests tailored specifically to your age, lifestyle and family history.

It can take between 24 to 48 hours to receive the results of a men's health check. You will have to go back and see the doctor who will talk you through them. The steps that follow depend on your results, but may include recommended treatment and a referral to a specialist doctor. They will also give you advice on what lifestyle changes are needed to improve your health.

How much does a men's health check cost?

The price of a full men’s health check can vary depending on the clinic but typically lies somewhere between £500 and £900.