How Often Should Men Get a Health Checkup?

egular health checkups aren’t just for when something feels off—they’re a vital part of staying healthy, catching problems early, and preventing future illness. Yet, many men delay routine visits, assuming they’re unnecessary unless symptoms appear.

If you're wondering how often to see your doctor or where to start, Vida Care Medical Center offers personalized wellness checkups tailored to your age, lifestyle, and risk factors. Their proactive care model helps men stay ahead of potential health concerns.

In this guide, we’ll break down how often men should get checkups at different life stages and what to expect during those visits.

How often should men in their 20s and 30s get checkups?

Men in their 20s and 30s should schedule a health checkup at least once every 2 to 3 years if they’re healthy—but annually if they have any risk factors.

This is the stage when most men feel invincible, but early prevention is key. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, men often skip routine visits, leading to missed signs of high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, or early diabetes. Even if you feel fine, baseline screenings help track changes over time.

A standard checkup in your 20s–30s may include:

Blood pressure and cholesterol tests

Body mass index (BMI) calculation

Lifestyle counseling (diet, sleep, alcohol, smoking)

Mental health check-ins

Sexual health and STD screenings, if needed

Annual checkups become especially important if you’re overweight, have a family history of heart disease or diabetes, or live a high-stress lifestyle.

What about men in their 40s and 50s?

Once men reach their 40s, aging starts to have a more visible impact—and annual checkups become the gold standard.

Men in their 40s and 50s should get a health checkup every year to monitor heart health, prostate function, and metabolic risks.

This is when cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and testosterone begin to shift. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 48% of men aged 45–64 have some form of cardiovascular disease.

At this age, annual checkups should include:

Comprehensive blood panel (cholesterol, glucose, liver function)

Prostate exam or PSA blood test (typically starts at age 50 or earlier if there’s family history)

Colon cancer screening beginning at age 45 (colonoscopy or stool tests)

Diabetes screening, especially for men with abdominal obesity

Regular monitoring helps identify issues early, when they’re most treatable.

How frequently should men over 60 see a doctor?

Health needs often grow more complex with age, and so should your checkup schedule.

Men over 60 should visit their primary care provider at least once a year—and more frequently if managing chronic conditions.

According to the National Council on Aging, 80% of older adults have at least one chronic condition, and nearly 70% have two or more. These could include hypertension, arthritis, diabetes, or osteoporosis—making consistent care essential.

Checkups for men 60+ typically cover:

Heart and kidney function testing

Cancer screenings (prostate, colon, lung if you’ve smoked)

Cognitive assessments (for early signs of dementia or memory decline)

Medication reviews and side-effect management

Vaccinations (shingles, flu, pneumonia, COVID boosters)

Don’t wait for symptoms—at this stage, staying ahead is often what keeps you independent and healthy longer.

What are the benefits of routine checkups?

Routine health checkups lead to early detection, better outcomes, and longer life expectancy.

A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that regular primary care visits are associated with fewer hospitalizations and lower mortality rates. Checkups also build a relationship with your provider, making it easier to talk openly about changes in your body or health.

Key benefits include:

Preventive care: Stop problems before they start

Early detection: Catch serious conditions at their most treatable stage

Personalized advice: Get health tips specific to your age and lifestyle

Better mental health support: Discuss stress, anxiety, or depression in a safe space

It’s not just about fixing problems—it’s about building a foundation for long-term wellness.

Final thoughts

Health checkups aren’t a luxury—they’re a necessity. Whether you’re in your 20s or 70s, knowing how often to see your doctor helps you stay ahead of silent health risks. Skipping a checkup might seem harmless now, but over time, small issues can become major health concerns.

If it’s been a while since your last visit, now’s the time to schedule one. Vida Care Medical Center makes it easy to get personalized care and screenings that match your stage of life—so you can feel confident about your health today and in the future.