Turning 40 is a good time to take a more proactive approach to your health. Although many men feel fit and well at this age, certain health conditions become more common as you get older, including high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Some can develop without obvious symptoms, making routine health checks particularly valuable.
The most important checks depend on your medical history, lifestyle and individual risk factors. However, understanding which assessments may be appropriate can help you make informed decisions about your long-term health.
1. Blood pressure
High blood pressure often has no noticeable symptoms, but it can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke and kidney problems. Having your blood pressure checked can help identify a problem before complications develop.
In England, adults aged 40 and over can access NHS Health Checks, subject to eligibility criteria. Blood pressure can also be measured at a GP surgery or some pharmacies.
If your reading is high, a healthcare professional may recommend further monitoring and lifestyle changes or treatment, depending on the results.
2. Cholesterol and heart health
Cholesterol is a fatty substance that your body needs, but excessive levels of certain types can contribute to fatty deposits building up in your arteries.
A cholesterol blood test can help assess your cardiovascular risk. Your healthcare professional may consider this alongside factors such as blood pressure, smoking, age and family history to estimate your risk of developing heart disease or having a stroke.
Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly and avoiding smoking can all help support heart health.
3. Blood glucose and diabetes risk
Type 2 diabetes can develop gradually, and some people have few noticeable symptoms in its early stages.
A blood glucose or HbA1c test may be appropriate if you have symptoms or risk factors, such as being overweight, having a family history of type 2 diabetes or having previously experienced raised blood glucose.
Symptoms worth discussing with a healthcare professional include increased thirst, needing to urinate more frequently, unexplained weight loss and persistent fatigue.
4. Sexual health and erectile function
Sexual health is another important part of men’s wellbeing after 40. Some men notice changes in their erections, libido or sexual confidence as they get older, although these changes are not inevitable.
Erectile dysfunction (ED), which means regularly struggling to get or maintain an erection suitable for sexual activity, can have several causes. These include stress, anxiety, diabetes, high blood pressure and cardiovascular problems.
Persistent ED is worth discussing with a healthcare professional because it can sometimes be an early indicator of an underlying health issue. Treatments such as sildenafil and tadalafil (the cheap generic version of Cialis) can help manage erectile dysfunction.
Bear in mind that it is important to consider the possible cause of ED rather than simply ignoring recurring symptoms. A medical assessment can help establish appropriate next steps.
5. Prostate health
The prostate gland can become enlarged with age, potentially causing urinary symptoms such as a weak urine stream, difficulty starting to urinate or needing to urinate more frequently, particularly at night.
These symptoms do not automatically mean you have prostate cancer. However, persistent changes should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
There is no routine national prostate cancer screening programme in the UK for all men over 40. A prostate-specific antigen blood test may be considered following an informed discussion about its potential benefits and limitations.
6. Weight, lifestyle and mental wellbeing
A health review is also an opportunity to consider your general lifestyle. Your healthcare professional may assess your weight, waist measurement, physical activity, smoking and alcohol consumption.
Mental health deserves attention too. Ongoing stress, anxiety, low mood and sleep difficulties can affect daily life and physical wellbeing. If you are struggling, seeking support is a sensible step rather than something to postpone.
When should men over 40 have health checks?
There is no single schedule that suits every man. Your GP or another qualified healthcare professional can advise you on which checks are appropriate based on your age, symptoms, family history and existing health conditions.
In England, eligible adults aged 40 to 74 who do not already have certain diagnosed conditions can generally receive an NHS Health Check every five years. You should seek medical advice sooner if you develop symptoms or have particular concerns.
From blood pressure and cholesterol to sexual health and prostate symptoms, taking concerns seriously is an important investment in your long-term health.