Field notes · Men's health basics
The annual check-up worth asking for
Most men walk into a doctor's appointment with one problem, answer the questions they are asked, and leave. Ten minutes of preparation changes that.
Dai Manuel · Coach Moose · Vancouver
Bring
Your family history, especially heart disease, diabetes and cancers in parents and siblings. A list of anything you take, supplements included. Your waist measurement and, if you have them, a week of home blood pressure readings. And a written list of your questions, most important first.
Ask
What are my blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar numbers, and what should they be? Given my history, what screening should I have and when? In Canada, colorectal screening typically starts at 50, and your doctor will talk through others based on your risk. And say the thing you are embarrassed about. Sleep, mood, drinking, sex. They have heard it before.
Common questions
- What should I ask at a check-up after 40?
- Ask for your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar numbers and targets, which screenings suit your age and family history, and raise any concerns about sleep, mood, alcohol or sexual health.
This is coaching, not medical advice. If something here sounds like you, talk to your doctor.
Sources
- Screening recommendations. Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care.
- Canadian Cardiovascular Society guidelines for the management of dyslipidemia, 2021.