Tests for men: which ones should be taken and when

Alexander, 38, is a businessman who is always in a hurry. One morning he felt inexplicably tired. His blood pressure was normal, his temperature was normal. But he was terribly lacking in energy. When he finally went to the doctor, it turned out that the cause was low testosterone and a hidden vitamin D deficiency. This story is not about an exception - it is a typical scenario that can be avoided with a simple blood test.

Today, men's health is not just a question of strength or endurance. It's about control. Men who get tested every year live longer, get sick less, and have a higher quality of life. In this article, we'll talk about more than just lists, but about life situations, when the analyses make sense, and what kind of research worth doing in any given situation.

When should you pay attention to the examination?

In your 20s and 30s, if you have chronic fatigue, acne, sleep problems, or decreased libido. This may be due to hormonal changes or a deficiency of iron, vitamin D, or zinc.
At 30–40 years old - if there is excess weight, periodic increase in blood pressure, decreased endurance. Often during this period, prediabetes appears, cholesterol increases, and metabolic syndrome begins.
At 45+ years of age — prevention of prostate cancer (PSA test), atherosclerosis, cardiovascular complications. Even without complaints.

What tests are mandatory regardless of age?

A complete blood count can detect anemia, inflammation, and immune disorders. A complete urine test is an early marker of disorders in the urinary system. A glucose test can identify the risk of diabetes, especially if there is a family history. Lipid profile (cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides) shows the condition of the vessels, and glycated hemoglobin - the sugar level over the past 3 months. Even in young men, asymptomatic increases are possible.

What to take to check potency and libido

Decreased sexual desire often has a biochemical basis. First of all, the level of total and free testosterone is checked. If abnormalities are detected, LH, FSH, and prolactin are added. In case of emotional disorders, it is advisable to check the level of cortisol (stress hormone) and thyroid function (TSH, T4). This is not only «about men» — it is about energy, the ability to concentrate, and emotional stability.

Prostate: why PSA testing shouldn't be ignored

After the age of 40, all men are recommended to have a yearly PSA — prostate-specific antigen. An increase can indicate both benign hyperplasia and prostate cancer. The problem is that in the early stages of the disease asymptomatic. The analysis allows you to detect pathology before complaints appear. It should be combined with prostate ultrasound and consultation with a urologist.

Tests for family planning

Before conceiving, it is important to make sure that there are no infections: HIV, hepatitis B and C, syphilis, chlamydia, ureaplasma. It is also recommended to check total testosterone, prolactin, vitamin D and do a spermogram. This will help avoid complications for the couple and increase the chances of successful conception.

If you are at risk

This includes men who are overweight, have high blood pressure, have a family history of diabetes or heart attacks. In this case, it is worth monitoring: glucose, HbA1c, cholesterol, C-reactive protein (inflammation marker), liver tests (ALT, AST), ferritin (iron deficiency or excess). If you are taking any medications or have a diagnosis, the tests may be adjusted individually by your doctor.

How often should you take tests?

Basic package (blood, urine, glucose, cholesterol, hormones) - annually. If there are deviations - more often, on the recommendation of a doctor. After 40 years - PSA every year. If new symptoms appear - immediately. It is important not to wait for pain or complications to appear - in most cases the examination takes 20 minutes, but can save years of health.

How to prepare for taking tests

Fasting (8–12 hours without food) — for most biochemical parameters, hormones, and glucose. Abstain from alcohol — at least 48 hours in advance. It is important not to exercise or smoke before the test — this affects cortisol, lipids, and enzymes. If you are taking medication — check with your doctor whether it is worth temporarily stopping them before the tests.

Men who get tested regularly

It's not just about numbers on a spreadsheet. It's about those who live consciously. A man who gets himself checked every year not only controls his health, but also passes on the right model of behavior to his son. He is not afraid of the diagnosis - he knows that Control is not a weakness, it is a strength..