By Dr. Henry Leung, Guest columnist

As a male primary care physician, I am often asked about the best practices for men’s health exams and screenings and, more importantly — and this often comes from the significant other in their life — how to get them to stick to these preventative measures.

These health evaluations are essential for maintaining well-being and detecting potential issues early when things are most treatable and sometimes even reversible – like high blood pressure.

At the baseline level, my current recommendations are for men to get annual physicals (not just every other year), the relevance of the digital rectal exam and the role of screening in prostate cancer detection.

Annual physicals are a cornerstone of preventive health care. They offer an opportunity to evaluate a patient’s overall health, update vaccinations and discuss lifestyle habits that impact long-term health. For men, these check-ups are crucial for monitoring common health issues, such as hypertension, diabetes and cardiovascular disease, which are prevalent in the male population.

Regular physical exams also help build a comprehensive health profile over time. Annual physicals allow us to track changes in a patient’s health year over year, making it easier to identify trends that might indicate underlying problems. It’s about staying proactive rather than having to be reactive in treatment.

One of the more contentious components of men’s health exams is the digital rectal exam. While the digital rectal exam can provide valuable information, it is not always necessary for every patient. The necessity of the DRE depends on individual risk factors. For men with a higher risk of prostate cancer — such as those with a family history or certain genetic markers — the digital rectal exam can be a useful tool. But having an open dialogue with your physician is important to determine if it’s right for you.

Another option is the prostate-specific antigen screening, which measures the level of prostate-specific antigen in the blood, with higher levels potentially indicating prostate cancer. The prostate-specific antigen screening has significantly evolved — with updated guidelines reflecting a more personalized approach.

PSA screening should be individualized based on a man’s risk factors. For men aged 55 to 69, the decision to undergo prostate-specific antigen screening should be made after thoroughly discussing the potential benefits and risks with their health care provider. For those 70 years old and up, PSA screening is generally not recommended unless they are in excellent health and have a higher life expectancy.

Men’s health exams and screenings are vital for detecting and preventing serious health issues. But men tend to feel they can put it off — since they “feel fine” or are “strong enough.”

As a physician, I encourage you to stay proactive about your health. Consult with your primary care physician about the most appropriate screenings and exams for your specific needs. Your health is an invaluable asset — so take the steps to protect it today.

Want to learn more? Visit gnpweb.com or call 949-425-0321 to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Henry Leung, with Greater Newport Physicians MemorialCare, is a doctor of osteopathic medicine and is board-certified in family medicine. He encourages his patients to focus on preventive care and is committed to advancing the health of his patients. He believes that nutrition and exercise are the keys to preventive health. He makes sure to remain easily accessible and always insists upon the highest standard of care. His medical interests include dermatology (medical and cosmetic) and sports medicine.