June 10, 2025 | Tags:
When it comes to staying healthy, preventive care is key. This is especially true for men, who are often less likely to visit the doctor regularly. Routine health screenings can detect serious conditions like colorectal cancer, high blood pressure and high cholesterol before symptoms arise, helping you take control of your health early.
Colorectal cancer screenings
While there are multiple options out there, colonoscopies are the preferred screening method for colorectal cancer.
A colonoscopy is a routine outpatient medical procedure used to examine the inside of your colon for abnormalities, like cancer or inflammation. They need to be done once every 10 years starting at age 45. How often you need to repeat the screening depends on which screening you and your PCP decide is right for you.
Blood pressure screenings
High blood pressure (or hypertension) usually has no symptoms, can go undetected and greatly increases the risk of heart attack, stroke and other diseases.
The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that adults aged 20 and older with normal blood pressure should have it checked at least once a year during routine healthcare visits. If you already have high blood pressure, ask your PCP how often it should be monitored.
Cholesterol screenings
High cholesterol increases your risk for heart disease and stroke. A blood test is used to measure your good and bad cholesterol levels. The AHA recommends that everyone over the age of 20 who does not have heart disease get their cholesterol tested every four to six years.
People with known heart disease or certain other conditions may need to have their cholesterol levels checked more often. Your cholesterol levels can often be controlled through lifestyle changes and/or medication.
Talk to your primary care provider
These are crucial topics to discuss with your primary care provider (PCP), as they understand your needs better than anyone. Make an appointment with your PCP to talk about your risk factors for these cancers and recommendations for your screening schedule.
If you are a Medical Mutual member and do not have a PCP, use the Find a Provider tool on My Health Plan to find one in your plan’s network or call the Customer Care phone number listed on your member ID card.