Every year, International Men’s Day (19 November) highlights the importance of men’s health, wellbeing and early disease prevention. The theme serves as a reminder that while men often prioritise work and family responsibilities, their own health screenings are frequently postponed until symptoms appear. On this occasion, it becomes especially important to address the silent but serious conditions that disproportionately affect men and can be prevented with timely checkups.
Indian men often delay checkups until symptoms appear, yet most chronic diseases begin silently. Early screening can prevent heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, and advanced cancers. This guide focuses on four essential annual checks for Indian men: blood pressure, cholesterol, prostate and testicular health, and diabetes screening.
Dr. Anuvesha Samala, MBBS, MD (USA), DABFM (USA), DABOM (USA), Diplomate American Board Family medicine, Diplomate American Board Obesity Medicine, stresses that the foundation of men’s health lies in evidence-based prevention.
Her guidance covers five major pillars:
1. Vaccinations:
Hepatitis B and HPV vaccines lower lifetime risk of liver and HPV-related malignancies.
Zoster vaccine at age 50 years
Tdap once every 10 years , from age 10 years and above
Pneumococcal vaccination : age 50 and older in healthy individuals and begins early if risk factors
Flu vaccines : yearly
2. Cancer Screening: Lung cancer screening with low-dose CT is recommended for high-risk male smokers; colon and prostate screening should follow evidence-based age thresholds.
3. Smoking Cessation: Risk of lung cancer and cardiovascular disease declines sharply within 1–5 years of quitting.
4. Metabolic Health: Early identification of obesity, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia prevents progression to diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
5. Lifestyle Interventions: Regular physical activity (≥150 min/week), sleep regulation, and diet quality are foundational in reducing chronic disease in men.
"Prevention is better than cure."
Dr. Anuvesha Samala, MBBS, MD (USA), DABFM (USA), DABOM (USA)
Given that many of the leading causes of death today are often referred to as “silent killers,” regular health monitoring has become essential. In my opinion, individuals—especially young men, who increasingly face significant mental stress and physical inactivity—should undergo a comprehensive health check-up at least once a year. As a medical community, we must encourage this practice, as neglecting routine evaluations may result in diseases being detected only at advanced or irreversible stages, which can be detrimental. Early detection, appropriate treatment, and consistent follow-up remain the cornerstone of reducing morbidity and mortality.
Dr. Shubham Halingali, MBBS
High blood pressure (“hypertension”) is often called a “silent killer” for good reason: it typically produces no obvious symptoms but significantly raises the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Why it matters
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), a blood pressure reading above 120/80 mm Hg begins to pose increased risk.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that among adults the risk of major cardiovascular events can drop roughly 10 % for every 5 mm Hg systolic reduction in blood pressure.
The ICMR–INDIAB study estimates that approximately 30 percent of Indian adults have hypertension.
NFHS-5 data shows hypertension prevalence is consistently higher in men than women across most states.
Hypertension contributes heavily to India’s rising rates of stroke and heart attacks, especially in men under 50.
What the screening schedule suggests
For men ages 18 to 39 years with normal readings (below 120/80) and no risk factors, blood pressure should be checked at least once every 3 to 5 years.
For men ages 40 to 64, annual measurement if you're healthy; more often if you have additional risks such as overweight, family history, or kidney disease.
If readings rise (for example systolic 120-129 or diastolic 70-79) you may need more frequent monitoring.
Key Indian factors
High salt consumption from pickles, papads, packaged snacks, and restaurant food contributes significantly to rising BP levels.
Younger Indian men working in corporate sectors report high stress, irregular sleep, and caffeine overuse, increasing BP risk.
Tips for men
Use a validated machine and follow proper technique: sit quietly, feet flat, arm supported at heart level.
Keep a log of your readings and share them with your doctor.
Lifestyle factors matter: reduce salt intake, maintain a healthy weight, limit alcohol, increase activity, manage stress.
Even if you feel fine, don’t skip the measurement—no symptoms doesn’t mean no risk.
Dyslipidaemia (unfavourable cholesterol levels) along with blood pressure and other factors form the bedrock of cardiovascular risk. Early identification permits early action.
Why it matters
The AHA lists cholesterol screening, blood pressure, blood glucose, BMI, smoking, diet, and physical activity as key controllable factors in reducing cardiovascular disease (CVD).
Many men with elevated cholesterol have no outward symptoms until heart disease emerges.
Indian men tend to develop heart disease 10–15 years earlier due to a genetic predisposition known as the South Asian Cardiovascular Risk Pattern.
AIIMS and Cardiological Society of India reports highlight a higher prevalence of:
High LDL cholesterol
Low HDL cholesterol
High triglycerides
Increased abdominal obesity
When to check your cholesterol
Starting age in Indian men: 25–30 years, especially if there is a family history of diabetes or heart disease.
If levels are normal: repeat every 3–5 years.
If overweight or obese: check every 1–2 years.
After age 40: annual screening is recommended.
Screening recommendations
According to American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP): men should be screened for lipids starting at age 40 to 75 years; evidence in younger men is less robust.
From the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) via MedlinePlus: cholesterol screening should begin between ages 20 and 35 depending on risk factors; repeat every five years if levels are normal.
After age 40, your 10-year cardiovascular risk calculator (which combines cholesterol, blood pressure, smoking, diabetes etc) may guide how often tests are needed.
What to ask and monitor
Ask for a “lipid profile”: total cholesterol, LDL (bad), HDL (good), triglycerides.
Review other risk factors: smoking, family history of heart disease, obesity, physical inactivity.
If your risk is elevated, ask about lifestyle interventions or whether your doctor will consider statin therapy.
Maintain a healthy diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein), stay physically active, keep weight in check, limit alcohol.
Men’s reproductive organ health often receives less attention than it should. Two areas merit specific mention: prostate health (especially as men age) and testicular health (particularly in younger men).
In India, prostate cancer is one of the top ten cancers among men, and incidence rises after age 50.
Current Indian recommendations
India does not have a national screening guideline for routine PSA testing.
Most urologists in India follow international shared decision-making, which means
Men 50–69 can discuss PSA testing risks and benefits with their doctor.
Men 45 and above should consider discussing screening if they have a family history of prostate cancer.
Indian factors to consider
Late presentation is common because men rarely undergo preventive checkups.
Urinary symptoms (frequent urination, weak stream, nighttime urination) are often attributed to “aging” and ignored.
Prostate screening: the rationale & nuance
The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and digital rectal exam (DRE) are the standard screening tools for prostate cancer risk.
The evidence is mixed: some organisations recommend shared decision-making (discussing pros and cons) rather than blanket screening of all men. For example, the American Cancer Society recommends that asymptomatic men with at least a 10-year life expectancy be given information and decide with their provider.
According to MedlinePlus: for men age 55-69 you should talk to your provider about PSA test benefits vs harms; for men younger than ~55 years screening is not routinely recommended unless higher risk.
Testicular cancer is less common in India compared to Western countries, but younger men aged 15–35 must stay aware.
Key guidance
Routine self-exam is not recommended as a screening test by major organisations.
But Indian oncologists advise awareness:
If you feel a painless lump, heaviness, or swelling, get an ultrasound.
Early detection has an almost 95 percent cure rate.
Testicular health: what to keep in mind
While screening via self-exam is not recommended routinely by the USPSTF in asymptomatic men for testicular cancer, awareness of changes is important.
Young men (typically ages 15-35) are more at risk for testicular cancer; early detection when a lump is found can lead to high cure rates.
What men should do
From about age 50 (or earlier if high risk) speak with your doctor about prostate screening: your general health, family history (especially if African ancestry or father/brother had prostate cancer) matter.
Don’t rely solely on PSA; consider symptoms (urinary issues, blood, bone pain) and life expectancy.
For testicular awareness: though formal screening is not endorsed universally, men should be aware of any new lumps, swelling, or changes and seek evaluation promptly.
Avoid neglecting these parts of male health just because you feel healthy—it’s often in the background until advanced.
Type 2 diabetes used to be thought of as a middle-age or older adult problem but now is increasingly seen at younger ages—especially in association with obesity, inactivity and poor diet. India has one of the highest diabetes burdens globally.
Why it matters
Elevated blood glucose (prediabetes) often has no symptoms but increases risk of cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, neuropathy and other complications. The AHA notes that high blood glucose is part of the cardiovascular risk profile.
According to AAFP guidelines, screening is advised for men 40-70 years who are overweight or obese and have additional cardiovascular risk factors.
India has over 101 million people with diabetes (ICMR–INDIAB 2023), with a sharp rise in men under 40.
Indian men have:
Higher visceral fat
Higher insulin resistance
More sedentary job profiles
This means diabetes often appears at a younger age and at a lower BMI compared to Western men.
Screening guidance
MedlinePlus states: begin screening for prediabetes/type 2 diabetes at age 35 with repeat every 3 years if overweight or you have other risk factors.
HealthCare.gov lists diabetes screening as part of preventive services: for adults 40-70 years who are overweight or obese.
Indian men 25 years and above with risk factors should begin screening early.
Men 35 and above should have routine screening every year.
Tests to ask for:
Fasting blood glucose
HbA1c
Oral glucose tolerance test (if prediabetes is suspected)
India-specific red flags
Waist circumference more than 90 cm
Strong family history
Urban lifestyle with desk jobs
Post-meal sleepiness
Sudden weight gain around abdomen
Actionable steps
Ask your doctor for a fasting blood glucose or HbA1c test to check your baseline.
If overweight (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m²) or you have family history of diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol, request earlier screening.
Lifestyle modifications have major impact: maintain healthy weight, limit sugary processed foods, exercise at least 150 minutes per week, avoid smoking.
If your results are slightly elevated (prediabetes), don’t dismiss these—they are a red-flag for future risk; act now.
Vaccination remains an essential part of adult preventive health.
Key vaccines include:
Influenza vaccine annually
Tdap or Td booster every ten years
COVID-19 vaccination as per guidelines
Hepatitis B vaccination for unvaccinated adults
HPV vaccination through age 26 (some guidelines extend to 45)
These recommendations align with adult immunisation schedules from U.S. health authorities.
Unlike Western countries, India does not have a universal adult vaccination schedule. MoHFW and NCDC recommend vaccines primarily for risk-based groups, not for all healthy adults.
Influenza vaccine is recommended for high-risk adults such as health care workers and adults with chronic illnesses.
Td/Tdap booster every ten years is supported in Indian adult immunisation guidance, especially for those with prior primary immunisation.
Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for at-risk groups including health care workers, individuals with occupational exposure and household contacts of infected persons.
COVID-19 vaccination is part of India’s national adult vaccination programme.
HPV vaccination is recommended primarily for girls and adolescents. MoHFW does not recommend routine HPV vaccination for adult men.
Smoking remains the strongest risk factor for lung cancer.
Tobacco use is widespread in India, including smoking and smokeless forms.
Although India does not yet have a national lung cancer screening programme, international guidelines recommend annual low-dose CT screening for adults aged 50 to 80 with a 20 pack year smoking history who currently smoke or quit within the last 15 years.
This category applies to millions of Indian male smokers and can significantly improve early lung cancer detection.
When to screen
Annual low-dose CT scan is recommended for adults aged 50 to 80 who:
Have a 20 pack year smoking history
Currently smoke or quit within the last fifteen years
This has been shown to reduce lung cancer mortality by detecting cancers at earlier, treatable stages.
Chronic hepatitis infections can progress silently to cirrhosis and liver cancer. India remains an intermediate prevalence country for Hepatitis B and has a significant burden of Hepatitis C in certain regions.
Recommendations
Hepatitis B testing is advised for individuals with risk factors such as multiple sexual partners, household exposure, travel to high prevalence areas or health care work.
Hepatitis C testing is recommended once in a lifetime for all adults, with periodic testing for high risk individuals.
Early diagnosis prevents cirrhosis and liver cancer.
Colorectal cancer screening prevents cancer by removing precancerous polyps and detecting cancer early.
Colorectal cancer incidence is lower in India compared to Western countries, and India does not have routine national screening guidelines.
However, international guidelines recommend beginning screening at age 45 through colonoscopy every 10 years or stool-based tests.
For Indian men with family history of colon cancer or gastrointestinal symptoms, clinicians often advise earlier evaluation.
When to screen
International guidelines recommend starting screening at age 45. Screening methods include colonoscopy every 10 years or stool based tests at more frequent intervals.
Preventive care in men is not optional—vaccination, screening, and smoking cessation are proven interventions that reduce long-term morbidity and mortality. Prevention is better than cure.
Dr. Anuvesha Samala, MBBS, MD (USA), DABFM (USA), DABOM (USA)
Men still too often delay checkups because they feel healthy, are busy, or are hesitant to talk about health issues. Yet it is precisely when you feel well that screening makes the most sense—it gives you a chance to catch problems before they surface in crisis.
Preventive screening is not a luxury in India—it is a necessity. Indian men face a unique combination of genetic, lifestyle and environmental risk factors that place them at high risk for heart disease, diabetes and hypertension at a much younger age.
Start by scheduling a general health checkup. Bring this guide along and talk with your doctor about which screenings apply to your age, your risk factors and your background. Keep track of your results, revisit lifestyle habits, and treat the checkup as a healthcare appointment you deserve.
By acting now you are investing in years of healthier living. Make the commitment to yourself.
References
ICMR–INDIAB Study: Prevalence of diabetes, hypertension and risk factors in India (2023).
https://main.icmr.nic.in/content/icmr-indiab-study
National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5): India Fact Sheet, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
http://rchiips.org/nfhs/factsheet_NFHS-5.shtml
Cardiological Society of India: Position papers on Indian cardiovascular risk.
https://www.csi.org.in/resources/
AIIMS Delhi – Cardiology Department: Expert commentary on early heart disease in Indian populations.
(Article compilation accessible via AIIMS public communications)
National Cancer Institute (India trends via Globocan): Prostate and testicular cancer burden in India.
https://gco.iarc.fr/today
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW): Screening guidelines and NCD resources.
https://main.mohfw.gov.in/major-programmes/nrhm/national-disease-control-programmes/non-communicable-disease
NHM India NCD Guidelines: Community-based assessment and early detection.
https://nhm.gov.in
MedlinePlus. “Health Screenings for Men Ages 40 to 64.” MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007465.htm
MedlinePlus. “Health Screenings for Men Ages 18 to 39.” MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007464.htm
Mayo Clinic Health System. “Men’s Health: Checkups, Screenings Key.” Mayo Clinic Health System.
https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/mens-health-checkups-and-screenings-are-key
American Heart Association. “Heart-Health Screenings.” American Heart Association.
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/consumer-healthcare/what-is-cardiovascular-disease/heart-health-screenings
American Academy of Family Physicians. “The Adult Well-Male Examination.” AAFP.
https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2018/1215/p729.html
HealthCare.gov. “Preventive Care Benefits for Adults.” U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
https://www.healthcare.gov/preventive-care-adults/
StatPearls / NCBI. “Prostate Cancer Screening.” StatPearls Publishing, National Center for Biotechnology Information.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556081/
National Cancer Institute. “Testicular Cancer Screening (PDQ®)–Patient Version.” National Cancer Institute.
https://www.cancer.gov/types/testicular/patient/testicular-screening-pdq
Indian Council of Medical Research, “ICMR–INDIAB Study,” https://main.icmr.nic.in/content/icmr-indiab-study; National Family
Health Survey (NFHS-5), “India Fact Sheet,” http://rchiips.org/nfhs/factsheet_NFHS-5.shtml.
Cardiological Society of India, “Position Papers and Clinical Guidance,” https://www.csi.org.in/resources/.
IARC/Globocan, “Cancer Today India,” https://gco.iarc.fr/today.
National Cancer Institute, “Testicular Cancer Screening (PDQ),” https://www.cancer.gov/types/testicular/patient/testicular-screening-pdq.
American Academy of Family Physicians, “The Adult Well Male Examination,” https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2018/1215/p729.html.
National Centre for Disease Control, “Adult Immunization,” Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, https://ncdc.mohfw.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Adult-Immunization.pdf.
American Academy of Family Physicians. “The Adult Well Male Examination.” Accessed 2018. https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2018/1215/p729.html.
American Heart Association. “Heart Health Screenings.” Accessed 2023. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/consumer-healthcare/what-is-cardiovascular-disease/heart-health-screenings.
Cardiological Society of India. “Position Papers and Clinical Guidance.” https://www.csi.org.in/resources/.
HealthCare.gov. “Preventive Care Benefits for Adults.” Accessed 2023. https://www.healthcare.gov/preventive-care-adults/.
Indian Council of Medical Research. “ICMR–INDIAB Study.” https://main.icmr.nic.in/content/icmr-indiab-study.
National Cancer Institute. “Testicular Cancer Screening (PDQ).” https://www.cancer.gov/types/testicular/patient/testicular-screening-pdq.
National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5). “India Fact Sheet.” http://rchiips.org/nfhs/factsheet_NFHS-5.shtml.
Reviewed By Dr. Anuvesha Samala, MBBS, MD (USA), DABFM (USA), DABOM (USA)
