Men’s health screening in Singapore serves a crucial purpose. It aims to detect potential health issues early on, often before symptoms arise.
This proactive approach allows for timely intervention, increasing the chances of successful treatment. Screenings target specific conditions common in men, like heart disease, prostate cancer, and diabetes.
Thanks to regular check-ups, men can monitor their health status. Regular check-ups also make it easy to make necessary lifestyle adjustments.
What is a Screening for Men?
Health screening involves regular check-ups and tests to identify potential health issues before symptoms manifest. For men, several key screenings play a crucial role in maintaining optimal health. Here are some of the tests that are available for men’s health screening in Singapore;
- Prostate Health Screening: Maintaining optimal prostate health significantly impacts a man’s overall well-being. Regular prostate screening is imperative, involving two key assessments; the PSA blood test and the digital rectal exam (DRE). Prostate health screening is strongly advised for men aged 50 and above. Individuals at heightened risk, may need to begin prostate health screening from as early as at 40 years old. Factors that may increase your risks for prostate cancer include; having a family history of prostate cancer, obesity, old age etc.
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) Screening: Preserving sexual health necessitates routine screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This encompasses an array of tests. From blood tests to urine samples or swabs, there are several options for STIs screening. The best option for STI screening for you will depend on the specific infection being screened. These examinations include crucial STIs like; HIV, syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. Annual men’s health screening in Singapore is highly recommended. This is especially true for sexually active men or those engaging in multiple sexual partnerships.
- Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Screening for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm is indispensable in averting a potentially life-threatening condition. The focal component of this screening involves an abdominal ultrasound. This diligently examines the aorta for any abnormal bulging. If left unattended, such an anomaly may culminate in a rupture. This underscores the criticality of early detection. Typically, a singular screening is advocated for men aged between 65 to 75 years. This applies for those who have ever smoked or have a familial predisposition to abdominal aortic aneurysms.
- High Cholesterol: Elevated cholesterol levels are a formidable risk to heart health. A straightforward blood test provides an accurate gauge of cholesterol levels. This screening is instrumental in identifying heightened cholesterol levels, which serve as a harbinger of escalated risks related to heart disease and stroke. Commencing from the age of 30, routine cholesterol screening every four to six years is encouraged. However, more frequent screening regimen may be recommended for individuals who have high risk factors for high cholesterol. Factors that increase your risks for elevated cholesterol levels include; obesity or a familial history of elevated cholesterol levels.
- Colorectal Cancer: Vigilant screening for colorectal cancer is instrumental in early intervention and treatment. This encompasses a range of tests. The tests for men’s health screening in Singapore that can be used for colorectal cancer screening include; colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, and fecal occult blood tests. All these tests have the shared goal of identifying colorectal cancer or precancerous polyps. Typically, screening initiates between the ages of 45 and 50. The frequency can vary depending on the chosen screening modality and individual risk factors.
- High Blood Pressure: Silently menacing, high blood pressure demands regular monitoring. The sphygmomanometer is the primary tool for measuring blood pressure. This screening is designed to identify hypertension. Hypertension is a key risk factor for both heart disease and stroke. Ensuring blood pressure is checked at least once every two years is imperative. For individuals grappling with high blood pressure or harboring additional risk factors, a more frequent monitoring regimen is unequivocally warranted.
- HIV: Screening for HIV is paramount for safeguarding sexual health and overall well-being. It incorporates either a blood test or an oral swab. This screening is intended to ascertain the presence of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Ensuring that everyone undergoes testing at least once is essential. High-risk individuals would need more frequent screening. Factors that significantly increase your risks for HIV include; sharing of piercing objects e.g. needles, and sexual contacts and most especially anal sex among other issues.
- Diabetes: The screening for diabetes holds massive significance in effectively managing blood sugar levels. This typically involves either a fasting blood sugar test or an A1C test. The objective of this screening is to discern elevated blood sugar levels, indicative of either diabetes or prediabetes. Adults aged 45 and above should contemplate regular diabetes screening, particularly if they contend with excess weight or harbor other discernible risk factors. For those yielding normal results, a subsequent round of testing every three years may suffice.
What is done During a Screening?
During a typical men’s health screening in Singapore, several essential steps are taken. To begin with, there will be a review of your medical history.
This will include any family health issues. After that, the doctor may measure, your blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.
In some cases, they may also measure your blood sugar levels. These metrics provide vital insights into your cardiovascular health.
A physical examination follows, checking your overall well-being. For specific screenings, like prostate exams, the doctor may conduct a focused assessment.
You might also discuss lifestyle factors which can impact your health. For example, the doctor may ask about your diet, exercise regime, and smoking habits.
Depending on your age and risk factors, additional tests may also be recommended. For example, the provider may recommend a colonoscopy or prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. For certain conditions, like skin cancer, a visual inspection of moles or unusual skin markings might be performed.
Closing Thoughts on Men’s Health Screening Tests in Singapore
Men’s health screening is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It’s tailored to individual risk factors and age.
This gives you the best chances for successful treatment and improved overall health. Remember to consult with a qualified doctor to determine the most appropriate screening schedule for your unique circumstances.
If you’re in Singapore, contact the dedicated team at Assure Family Clinic for guidance on the best health screening tests for you and have any concerns addressed promptly. Call or visit the Assure Family Clinic at;
Assure Family Clinic – Health Screening | Adult & Pediatric Vaccination Singapore
161 Bukit Merah Central,
#01-3739,
Singapore 150161
+656252 8112
