When most people think of urologists, they imagine kidney stones or prostate issues. But urologists play a much broader role in men’s health, especially when it comes to prevention. Just as women benefit from regular gynecologic care, men benefit from periodic urologic evaluations—particularly as they age.
From early detection of prostate cancer to managing testosterone levels and screening for testicular cancer, urologic screenings can make a major difference in both quality and length of life. So, what preventive tests should men be aware of, and when should they start? Let’s break it down.
Why Preventive Urologic Care Matters
Preventive care is about catching problems early—often before symptoms appear. Many urologic conditions are asymptomatic in their early stages, including prostate cancer and low testosterone.
Urologists are specially trained to:
- Monitor for signs of genitourinary cancers
- Evaluate hormone levels
- Screen for sexual health issues
- Identify early signs of urinary dysfunction or kidney disease
Men often delay medical visits, which means that many urologic issues go undetected until they’re more difficult to treat. Regular screening can help avoid this.
Key Urologic Screenings Every Man Should Know About
Here are the most important preventive urologic tests men should consider, especially after age 40.
1. Prostate Cancer Screening
Who should get it: Men starting between ages 45 and 55, earlier for those with risk factors (family history, African American heritage).
Tests include:
- PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test: Measures PSA levels, which may be elevated in prostate cancer, BPH, or inflammation.
- Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A quick physical exam to check for prostate irregularities.
Why it matters: Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men, but it’s highly treatable when caught early.
2. Testicular Cancer Screening
Who should do it: Men between ages 15–40 are at the highest risk.
Screening method:
- Self-exams: Men should perform monthly self-exams, feeling for lumps, firmness, or changes in size or texture.
- Clinical exam: Urologists can evaluate any concerns or perform routine checks during annual visits.
Why it matters: Testicular cancer is rare but highly curable, especially if detected early.
3. Bladder Cancer Risk Assessment
Who’s at risk: Men over 55, smokers, or those exposed to certain chemicals (e.g., in construction, painting, or dye industries).
Screening:
- Urinalysis: Checks for blood or abnormal cells.
- Urine cytology: Looks for cancer cells in urine.
- Cystoscopy or imaging: For higher-risk individuals or those with symptoms (like blood in urine).
Why it matters: Bladder cancer is often detected after symptoms appear, but early identification improves outcomes.
4. Kidney Function Testing
Who should consider it: Men with high blood pressure, diabetes, a family history of kidney disease, or frequent NSAID use.
Tests include:
- Blood tests (creatinine, BUN, GFR): Evaluate kidney function.
- Urinalysis: Detects protein, blood, or infection.
- Imaging: Ultrasound or CT if stones, tumors, or obstruction are suspected.
Why it matters: Kidney disease often progresses silently and can lead to serious complications if undetected.
5. Low Testosterone Screening (Hypogonadism)
Who’s at risk: Men over 40, or younger men with symptoms like fatigue, low libido, or mood changes.
Screening method:
- Total testosterone blood test, usually done in the morning.
Why it matters: Low testosterone can impact muscle mass, energy, sexual function, and even mental health. It’s treatable once diagnosed.
6. Erectile Dysfunction (ED) and Vascular Health
ED is often a symptom of underlying cardiovascular disease. A urologist may screen for:
- Blood flow issues
- Hormonal imbalances
- Neurological causes
ED can be a red flag—sometimes appearing years before a heart attack or stroke. Don’t ignore it.
7. Urinary Health Evaluation
As men age, urinary symptoms become more common, often due to an enlarging prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia or BPH).
Screenings include:
- Symptom questionnaires (e.g., IPSS)
- Uroflowmetry or bladder scans
- Urinalysis to check for infection or blood
If you’re waking up multiple times at night, rushing to the bathroom, or having difficulty starting or stopping urination, it’s time for a checkup.
When Should Men Start Seeing a Urologist?
Men don’t necessarily need to see a urologist annually unless they’re being treated for a specific condition. However, regular check-ins are recommended:
- Age 20–40: Self-exams for testicular cancer; discuss fertility or sexual health if needed.
- Age 40–50: Begin discussions about prostate screening; check hormone levels if symptoms arise.
- Age 50+: Annual prostate evaluations, kidney function testing, and urinary symptom reviews.
Earlier screening may be needed based on family history or symptoms.
Final Thoughts
Preventive urologic care is an often-overlooked but vital part of men’s health. Whether it’s prostate cancer, low testosterone, kidney disease, or sexual health, urologists offer specialized expertise in the conditions most likely to affect men as they age.
If you haven’t had a urologic screening—or if you’re experiencing symptoms like fatigue, frequent urination, or ED—it’s time to schedule a visit. Prevention and early detection could save your life—or at the very least, vastly improve your quality of it. We recommend urologist brooklyn.
