Annual Health Check Checklist for Men Over 40

Turning 40 often signals changes in your body that can increase health risks like heart disease, diabetes, and prostate issues. Regular check-ups help catch problems early, making them easier to address. Key areas to monitor include cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar, hormone levels, and organ health.

Key Takeaways:

• Heart health: Watch cholesterol, blood pressure, and resting heart rate.
• Diabetes risk: Test fasting glucose and HbA1c levels.
• Hormones: Check testosterone and thyroid function.
• Prostate health: Monitor PSA levels, especially with family history.
• General wellbeing: Include liver, kidney, and vitamin tests.

Annual tests provide a baseline for tracking changes and give peace of mind. Early detection allows you to make lifestyle changes or seek treatment before issues worsen.

Important Blood Tests for Men Over 40

Blood tests can uncover potential health issues before symptoms appear, making them a critical tool for men over 40. Knowing which tests to prioritise and what they reveal about your health is key. Below, we delve into some of the most important tests and how they relate to your well-being.

Cholesterol and Lipid Profile

As men age, cholesterol levels take on greater significance due to the rising risk of heart disease. A lipid profile evaluates four essential components that contribute to heart health.

• Total cholesterol gives an overview, but the breakdown is where the real insight lies.
• LDL cholesterol (the "bad" type) can build up in your arteries, increasing the risk of blockages. Aim for levels below 3.0 mmol/L, though lower is generally better.
• HDL cholesterol (the "good" type) helps clear cholesterol from your arteries, transporting it to the liver for disposal. Levels above 1.0 mmol/L are protective.
• Triglycerides measure the fats in your blood. High levels (over 1.7 mmol/L) are linked to heart disease and diabetes risk. For men over 40, triglycerides often rise with age, especially if carrying extra weight around the waist.

The good news? Lipid levels respond quickly to lifestyle changes, with noticeable improvements often seen within 6-12 weeks of adopting a healthier diet or increasing physical activity.

Blood Glucose and HbA1c

The risk of type 2 diabetes climbs significantly after 40, making blood glucose testing an essential check. A fasting glucose test measures your blood sugar after at least 8 hours without food, with normal levels below 6.0 mmol/L. Levels between 6.1-6.9 mmol/L suggest prediabetes.

For a more comprehensive view, HbA1c testing is invaluable. This test reflects your average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months by measuring glucose attached to red blood cells. An HbA1c below 42 mmol/mol (6.0%) is normal, while 42-47 mmol/mol indicates prediabetes.

Unlike fasting glucose tests, HbA1c doesn’t require fasting and is less influenced by short-term factors like stress or meals. This makes it a convenient and reliable way to assess long-term blood sugar control. Since diabetes develops gradually, subtle symptoms like fatigue or increased thirst can easily go unnoticed.

Hormone and Vitamin Panels

Testosterone levels naturally decline by 1-2% annually after 30, but some men experience more pronounced drops. Low testosterone can affect energy, mood, muscle mass, and sexual function. A total testosterone test measures the hormone bound to proteins in your blood, while free testosterone assesses the active hormone available to your tissues. Normal total testosterone levels range from 10-30 nmol/L. If you’re experiencing symptoms like persistent fatigue or reduced motivation, even a "normal" result may warrant further investigation.

Thyroid function tests evaluate how well your thyroid gland is working, which impacts metabolism, energy, and body temperature. The key marker is TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone), with normal levels typically between 0.5-4.5 mU/L.

Vitamin D deficiency is common in the UK due to limited sunlight exposure. Levels above 75 nmol/L are considered optimal, though some experts suggest aiming for 100-150 nmol/L. Low vitamin D can affect bone health, immunity, and mood - important factors as you age.

Vitamin B12 also becomes critical after 40 since absorption from food often declines. This vitamin supports nerve function, red blood cell production, and energy. Levels should ideally be above 300 pmol/L.

Liver, Kidney, and Prostate Health

Liver function tests assess enzymes and proteins that reflect liver health. Key markers include ALT and AST, which should generally be below 40 U/L. Elevated levels may signal liver stress from alcohol, medications, or fatty liver disease, which becomes more common with age.

Kidney function is evaluated through creatinine levels and eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate). Healthy kidneys filter waste effectively, with an eGFR above 90 mL/min/1.73m² considered normal. Levels below 60 indicate reduced kidney function that needs closer monitoring.

For men over 40, PSA (prostate-specific antigen) testing is particularly relevant, especially if there’s a family history of prostate issues. PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland, and elevated levels can signal anything from benign enlargement to more serious conditions. Normal levels are typically below 4.0 ng/mL, but tracking changes over time is often more insightful than a single reading.

The Well Man Blood Test offered by Epsom Blood Tests includes 59 indicators, covering testosterone, male-specific markers, and general health checks. At £159.00, it provides a thorough overview, making it a practical choice for men over 40 who want a comprehensive health assessment.

Other Important Health Checks

Blood tests can reveal a lot about your health, but they’re just one piece of the puzzle. A thorough health check-up should also include physical exams, lifestyle evaluations, and specific screenings that can detect issues blood tests might miss. Let’s take a closer look at some of these essential screenings, especially for those over 40.

Heart and Metabolic Health

Keeping an eye on your cardiovascular health is essential. Blood pressure, for example, is a silent indicator of potential problems. Ideally, your blood pressure should stay below 120/80 mmHg. If it climbs above 140/90 mmHg, it’s time to take action.

Body weight and shape matter too. A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 kg/m² is considered healthy, but your waist size is just as important. A waist measurement under 94 cm is linked to lower risks of heart disease and diabetes, while anything over 102 cm signals higher risk.

An ECG (electrocardiogram) is another valuable tool, particularly if you have a family history of heart issues or experience symptoms like chest discomfort during physical activity. It can uncover irregular heart rhythms or signs of past heart damage.

Your resting heart rate is another indicator of heart health. A normal rate falls between 60 and 100 beats per minute. If your resting heart rate regularly exceeds 100 bpm or you notice significant changes, it’s worth discussing with your GP.

Cancer Screenings

Cancer screenings are an important part of staying ahead of potential health issues. For example, bowel cancer screening is offered by the NHS every two years for men aged 60–74, using a simple home test kit. If you have risk factors, you might want to ask your GP about starting screenings earlier.

Skin cancer is another concern, and regular self-checks using the ABCDE method can help you spot warning signs early. Look for: Asymmetry, Borders that are irregular, Colour changes, a Diameter larger than 6 mm, or an Evolving appearance. A professional skin exam can catch things you might miss.

If you have a family history of cancers, talk to your GP about personalised screening schedules. Prostate cancer screening isn’t routinely offered but may be recommended based on your family history or symptoms.

Mental Health and Lifestyle Factors

Your mental well-being and daily habits play a huge role in your overall health. These aspects should be part of your annual health review, complementing physical exams and blood tests.

Screening for depression and anxiety is especially important for men over 40. Your GP may also ask about alcohol consumption and tobacco use, as these habits can significantly impact your health. Questions about your mood, energy levels, and lifestyle choices can help identify risks early.

If you’re overweight or obese, diet and exercise counselling will likely be part of your check-up. Your GP will discuss your eating habits and activity levels to suggest practical changes.

Stress is another factor that often comes up during these evaluations. It’s increasingly recognised as a major health risk and is discussed as part of a comprehensive lifestyle and mental health assessment.

It’s important to see these conversations not as criticism but as preventive care. By focusing on a balanced diet, regular exercise, and keeping your BMI within a healthy range, you can lower your risk of chronic illnesses.

How to Read Your Results and Plan Next Steps

Getting your health check results can feel overwhelming at first. Decoding what the numbers mean and figuring out how to act on them is key to staying healthy as you age.

Reading Your Test Results

Your test results will often include reference ranges to indicate what’s considered normal. For example, if your total cholesterol is 6.2 mmol/L (above the recommended 5.0 mmol/L), it’s worth addressing.

Here’s a quick breakdown of some typical benchmarks to keep in mind:

• Cholesterol: Total cholesterol should be below 5.0 mmol/L, LDL under 3.0 mmol/L, and HDL above 1.0 mmol/L.
• Fasting glucose: Aim for levels between 3.9–5.5 mmol/L. Higher readings might suggest prediabetes or diabetes.
• HbA1c: This marker reflects your average blood sugar over 2–3 months and should stay under 42 mmol/mol (6.0%).
• Hormone levels: These can be harder to interpret due to daily fluctuations. For instance, testosterone naturally decreases with age, but levels below 8.0 nmol/L may need further discussion with your GP.
• Thyroid function: TSH levels should typically range from 0.4–4.0 mU/L.

If any of your results fall outside these ranges, don’t panic. A single abnormal result isn’t always a cause for concern. Sometimes, repeating the test can provide clarity. Once you’ve got a handle on your results, it’s time to take action.

Making an Action Plan

Understanding your results is just the first step. The next is turning that knowledge into a plan. If your results reveal anything unusual or raise potential health risks, reach out to your GP or healthcare provider as soon as possible. Don’t wait for your next routine appointment if something looks concerning.

Your healthcare professional will explain your results in detail and help you understand their impact on your overall health. They might also calculate your cardiovascular risk score, categorising it as low, moderate, or high. Based on this, they’ll offer tailored advice to reduce your chances of developing conditions like heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, or stroke.

Typically, this advice will include practical tips on improving your diet, incorporating regular exercise, and making other lifestyle adjustments. These recommendations will be customised to address your specific results and any risk factors identified.

If certain results raise red flags - such as an elevated PSA level - you might be referred for further testing, like an MRI scan or a biopsy. Your GP or healthcare provider can also help arrange follow-up appointments, whether through the NHS or private services, and connect you with specialists if needed.

For complex or abnormal results, consulting your GP is essential. Some irregular readings could be temporary, influenced by factors like recent illness, medication, or even the timing of your test. Your GP can interpret these results in the context of your overall health and medical history.

Many healthcare services now offer ongoing support to help you stay on track. This might include coaching calls to keep you motivated, access to health helplines, or online programmes to address issues like anxiety or sleep troubles. These resources are there to support you - take full advantage of them.

It’s also a good idea to keep a record of your results over time. Tracking these numbers can help you and your healthcare team spot patterns and assess how well lifestyle changes or treatments are working. If you’re using private testing services, like those from Epsom Blood Tests, share your results with your GP to ensure they have the complete picture of your health.

Conclusion: Making Your Health a Priority After 40

Turning 40 often signals the start of noticeable changes in your body, making it the perfect time to pay closer attention to your health. The checklist we’ve discussed - covering everything from blood tests to heart and mental health reviews - acts as a helpful guide to navigate the challenges that can come with ageing.

Early detection is key. Whether it’s spotting high cholesterol or declining testosterone levels, identifying these issues early gives you the chance to address them before they impact your overall well-being. These health markers act as valuable signals, helping you make informed adjustments to your lifestyle or treatment plans.

But understanding your test results is only part of the equation. Healthcare professionals play a vital role by providing tailored advice based on your specific needs. This personalised guidance ensures that your annual health checks become a reliable foundation for staying on top of your health.

Epsom Blood Tests makes this process straightforward by offering detailed health checks. For example, the Well Man Blood Test covers 59 key health markers for £159.00. With next-day results reviewed by doctors and performed by experienced phlebotomists in a clinical setting, you’ll receive clear, actionable insights to help you make the best decisions for your health.

Taking control of your health after 40 means staying proactive. Regular health checks equip you with the knowledge and tools to maintain your energy, catch potential problems early, and face the years ahead with confidence. Start prioritising your health now - the rewards will last for years to come.

FAQs

What lifestyle changes can men over 40 make to improve their cholesterol and blood sugar levels?

Improving cholesterol and blood sugar levels for men over 40 often begins with adopting healthier lifestyle habits. A balanced diet plays a key role - focus on incorporating plenty of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats into your meals. At the same time, cutting back on saturated fats, processed foods, and added sugars can make a noticeable difference.

Staying physically active is just as important. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise each week, such as brisk walking or cycling. Keeping your weight in check and finding ways to manage stress can also contribute to better metabolic health. On top of that, reducing alcohol consumption and avoiding smoking can positively influence both cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

For tailored advice and to track your progress, it’s wise to consult your GP or a healthcare professional. Regular health checks can help you stay on top of your goals.

How often should men over 40 have a PSA test, particularly if there is a family history of prostate problems?

Men over 40 with a family history of prostate problems should consider discussing prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing with their GP. While PSA testing is generally recommended for men starting at 50, those with increased risk factors - like a family history of prostate cancer - might need to begin earlier, often around the age of 45.

How often you should be tested will depend on your personal and family medical history. Your GP will guide you on the best approach. Early screening can catch potential problems before symptoms appear, offering a better opportunity to safeguard your prostate health.

Why is it important for men over 40 to monitor testosterone and thyroid hormone levels, and what are the signs of an imbalance?

As you move past 40, keeping an eye on hormone levels, such as testosterone and thyroid function, becomes increasingly important. These hormones have a major influence on your overall health, affecting everything from energy levels to mood and metabolism. While hormonal shifts are a natural part of ageing, imbalances can sometimes lead to challenges like fatigue, mood swings, unexplained weight changes, or a decline in libido.

Signs of a hormonal imbalance might include constant tiredness, trouble focusing, noticeable changes in body shape, or unpredictable energy levels. Scheduling regular health check-ups can help catch these issues early, making it possible to take steps - whether through lifestyle adjustments or medical treatments - to stay in good health.