TURNING 50? ESSENTIAL TESTS MEN SHOULD TAKE

The risk of chronic conditions increases with age, making screenings vital

- BY LAKSHANA N. PALAT Assistant Features Editor

Reaching 50 is more than just a birthday. As much as we don’t want to admit it, it’s a wake-up call to tune into your health. And, as men age, the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer naturally increases, making regular health screenings absolutely vital.

This message has been brought into sharper focus recently, following former US President Joe Biden’s announcement about his prostate cancer diagnosis, sparking conversations about men prioritising screenings, especially for prostate health.

Turning 50 wasn’t so frightening for Dubai-based Matt Hutley, a businessman. He didn’t think there was anything ‘different’ that he had to do, as compared to his forties or even thirties. “I’m healthy. Fit. I work out often. But I never did tests. I never saw the need for them,” he recalls.

And he would calm his wife down, who would always insist on doing tests. “I finally did, and found that I was at risk of hypertension,” he says. That started worrying him, and he worked harder on his health and fitness, without taking it for granted, just because he ‘seemed’ fine.

So, if you’re wondering what tests to take after the age of 50, experts have some advice ...

PROSTATE SPECIFIC ANTIGEN TEST

Any man starting from the age of 40 should perform a very important blood test: It’s called PSA, or prostate specific antigen. It’s the tumour marker of the prostate gland, explains Amgad Farouk, Consultant, Urology, Medcare Hospital Al Safa.

Prostate cancer remains one of the most common cancers in men, especially after 50, and early detection is crucial. In addition to the PSA test, your doctor might recommend a Digital Rectal Exam (DRE), a quick physical check for any lumps or irregularities in the prostate.