Important health checks for men over 50 (Australian man's personal experience)

Like cleaning the gutters and giving the dog his eye drops, a visit to the doctor can be a chore many men – me included - would rather avoid.

However, just like an annual car service can pick up small issues with your motor before it breaks down, regular health screenings and tests are the best way to detect serious health issues early on, help you get any treatment you need quickly, and continue living a healthy, happy life.

Like it or not, cancer is something that many men will face as they age. It’s estimated that 90,88 men will be diagnosed with cancer in 2023.1 Sadly, advancing age is a risk factor for many cancers,1 which is why it’s so important to stay vigilant to any changes in how we feel, and access the available tests and screenings.

So, for a bunch of blokes who would rather unblock the drains than step inside a medical centre, what are the tests we need to make the effort to have, and why?

OK men, let’s start at the bottom (pun intended).

Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is more common in people over the age of 50, and it was estimated that it would be the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia in 2023.¹ So it’s important to be aware of risks that could indicate early signs after we hit that milestone.

Changes in bowel movements (and what they produce – gross but true) may indicate an issue.² If you notice anything different (colour, consistency, blood or mucous), the first step is talking to your GP who may refer you to a specialist doctor or clinic for some tests.

While the word test can make a lot of us want to run in the opposite direction, it’s worth knowing that if caught early enough, bowel cancer can often be managed.² Studies show screening tests to be an effective measure to help prevent bowel cancer related-death, and may reduce the risk of death by up to 73%.³ However, a specialist can’t screen you unless you actually go for a test, so buckle up (or unbuckle), and take charge.

Depending on your symptoms, the tests your specialist recommends will differ. Blood tests and stool samples may be the first step.²

A colonoscopy is also a common test used to look for bowel cancer, allowing for the lining of the entire bowel to be examined.² While the thought of having a (very small) camera inserted into your butt to identify any suspicious tissues might strike fear into the heart of even the toughest bloke, there’s nothing to be uncomfortable, embarrassed, or concerned about. During the procedure, which generally takes about 30 minutes, you’ll be blissfully sedated and wake up with your dignity intact.

While prevention is better than cure, sometimes that’s not always possible. However, you can take a more active role in early detection of conditions like bowel cancer. If you have risk factors – including a family history of bowel cancer – and want to have regular tests, depending on where you live, your private, public, and government health bodies may offer regular screening programs.

In Australia, if you’re aged between 50 and 74, the government will send you a free testing kit in the mail every 2 years under the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.⁴

Next up, the one we all avoid and let’s be honest, generally dread!

Yes, we’re talking prostates and THAT test. But before we get into the nitty gritty, let’s talk facts.

Prostate cancer was estimated to be the most common cancer diagnosed in men in Australia in 2023, with an estimated 25,500 cases diagnosed.¹ It is estimated that 1 in 6 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer by the age of 85¹ so it’s more important than ever to understand the rationale and protocol for prostate cancer testing.

Prostate cancer can often be asymptomatic and in most cases is picked up only because of screening.⁵ However, if there are symptoms, this may include:⁵

• Frequent or the sudden need to urinate
• Blood in semen or urine
• Slow flow of urine
• Pain in the lower back, thighs, or hips

It’s important that you see your doctor as soon as you can if you notice any of these symptoms or are concerned. As with most cancers, early detection is important for survival and long-term quality-of-life.^5,6

When it comes to testing for prostate cancer, you’ll be pleased to know the first step only involves rolling up your sleeve. A blood test called a PSA (prostate specific antigens) can determine if there are elevated levels of a protein that may indicate prostate cancer.⁵ Another commonly used test to check for changes in the prostate is a digital rectal exam.⁵

If you’ve never had the “pleasure” of a digital (i.e. finger) rectal (i.e. butt) examination, then chances are you’ve overestimated how awful it will be. Honestly, it’s not as bad as you think, but knowledge is power and it’s worth knowing what you’re walking into so there are no surprises.

Here’s what you can expect:⁵

• Your doctor will ask you to slide your pants down and lay on one side on the examination table. They will usually leave the room or draw a curtain around the table while you do this, so you have plenty of privacy.
• Your doctor will put on a rubber glove and, using lubricant, will insert one finger into the rectum to feel for any abnormalities in your prostate.
• The whole process will last 10–20 seconds at most you get to talk about footy/cricket/weather the whole time to make up for the awkwardness.

Is it going to be fun? No.

Is it going to be a bit awkward? Hell, yes.

Could it literally add years or even save your life? Ab-so-bloody-lutely!

Depending on what your doctor finds they may conduct further tests, such as an MRI or biopsy.

While you’re in the zone – so to speak – it’s also worth talking about enlarged prostates, as going to the loo 17 times a night isn’t simply part of getting on a bit. The cause of prostate enlargement is unknown, but it's believed to be linked to hormonal changes as a man gets older. The good news is there are ways to manage prostate cancer, including medications and surgery. It is recommended to talk to your doctor about the best option for you.

So is it a mole or is it skin cancer? Regular skin checks are an easy one for you.

We suggest becoming familiar with your skin. It’s important you can recognise what’s usually normal for you – that way you’ll know if anything changes.

Here’s a quick how-to:⁷

• Make sure you check your entire body, skin cancers can sometimes occur on parts of the body that are not exposed to the sun, i.e. soles of the feet, between fingers and toes and under nails
• Undress completely and make sure you have good light
• Use a mirror to check hard to see spots, like your back and scalp, or get a family member, partner, or friend to check for you

If you notice any changed or suspicious spot, you should visit a doctor for further evaluation. It is also advisable to speak to your GP about your skin type and family history.

While some recommended health checks are going to be a walk in the park, others are more involved and could require you to take a few deep breaths.

However, investing time and attention into your health is never going to be a bad move. Just like that classic car in the garage, you want to keep your engine running well for a long time, so make the time for a tune-up today.

Disclaimer

Any medical procedure or treatment involving the use of radiation carries risks, including skin irritation and associated pain. Before proceeding with treatment, you should discuss the risks and benefits of the treatment with an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Individual treatment outcomes and experiences will vary. This information does not represent the outcome in your particular situation.