Men's Health Checklist: What Every Man Should Ask His Doctor

If you're like a lot of men, you probably don't think much about your health until something hurts—or worse, stops working. But taking a proactive approach to your health isn't just smart—it can be lifesaving. 

"Many men put off going to the doctor because they feel fine," said Dr. Stephen Rubendall, Jr., a family medicine physician at Archbold Primary Care Camilla. "But the truth is, some of the most serious health conditions don't cause symptoms until they're already advanced. That's why regular screenings and annual check-ins with your doctor are so important."

Whether you're in your 30s, 50s, or beyond, here's your go-to checklist of what to ask your doctor at your next primary care check-up. 

1. What's My Blood Pressure, and What Does It Mean?

High blood pressure is known as the "silent killer" for a reason. It often has no symptoms but can lead to heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems if left untreated. 

"Blood pressure is one of the first things we check, and it's a key indicator of your cardiovascular health," said Dr. Rubendall. "If your numbers are elevated, we'll talk about lifestyle changes or medication options to get it under control."

Ask your doctor:

• What's a healthy blood pressure range for my age and lifestyle?
• What can I do to lower my numbers naturally?

2. Should I Get My Cholesterol Checked? 

High cholesterol can sneak up on you. And it's not just a concern for older adults. It's something that should be monitored regularly, especially if you have a family history of heart disease. 

"We typically recommend cholesterol screening starting at age 35 for men with no risk factors, and earlier if there's a strong family history or other concerns," Dr. Rubendall said. "This helps us spot potential problems early."

Ask your doctor:

• What are my cholesterol levels, and are they in the healthy range?
• How often should I have my cholesterol checked? 

3. How's My Mental Health?

Mental health often gets overlooked in conversations about men's wellness, but it's just as critical to monitor as physical health. 

"Men sometimes struggle to talk about stress, anxiety, or depression," said Dr. Rubendall. "But these issues are common, and the sooner we address them, the better."

Ask your doctor:

• Are there resources for managing stress or anxiety?
• What are the signs of depression I should be aware of? 

4. When Should I Be Screened for Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, but only if it's caught early. 

"We now recommend men begin colon cancer screenings at age 45," said Dr. Rubendall. "There are multiple screening options available, including colonoscopy and non-invasive tests, and we can help you choose the one that's best for you."

Ask your doctor:

• What colon cancer screening option is right for me?
• How often do I need to be screened for colon cancer?

5. How Can I Improve My Daily Habits?

Small changes can lead to big improvements in your long-term health—things like eating better, exercising regularly, and getting better sleep. 

"Preventive care isn't just about tests and labs," Dr. Rubendall said. "It's also about coaching men through manageable lifestyle improvements that pay off over time."

Ask your doctor:

• What's one habit I could change that would make the biggest impact on my health?
• Should I be taking any supplements or vitamins? 

Don't Wait for a Wake-Up Call

Too often, men wait until something feels wrong before they consider seeing a doctor. But by then, it may already be a serious issue. Taking the time now to ask the right questions, schedule your screenings, and check in on your mental and physical health could help you avoid that wake-up call altogether. 

"Don't assume that feeling fine means everything is fine," said Dr. Rubendall. "Preventive care helps us catch potential issues early, when they're easier to treat, and often reversible."

Your primary care provider is your partner in staying healthy, not just someone you call when something breaks. So ask the hard questions, talk about what's been on your mind, and take those small steps now that could make a big difference later. 

Ready to Check In On Your Health?

When it comes to your health, you shouldn't be left guessing about what to do next. At Archbold, our experience and compassionate primary care providers are here to guide you every step of the way, with personalized care and convenient locations across South Georgia. 

Schedule an appointment today with an Archbold Primary Care provider!