10 hours ago
Why Men Shouldn't Skip That All-Important Health Check
When was the last time you had a health check? If you're like most Indian men, the answer might be 'never' or 'I was forced to'. Truth: Serious health conditions are quietly brewing in many men — and showing up far earlier than they used to.
Non-communicable diseases are now hitting Indian men in their 30s and 40s, not in their late 50s (as most believe). The scariest part? Many of these issues have no symptoms in the early stages. Fortunately, a comprehensive health check that goes beyond the basics and offers advanced testing can make a difference.
Here are a few NCDs that affect men primarily, and the latest tests available:
1. Heart Disease
Even if you feel perfectly fine, your heart may feel otherwise. Men aged 45+ are 28% more likely to have heart disease than women of the same age. According to the Apollo Health of the Nation 2025 report, of the 3,000+ people (with no history of heart issues) evaluated for heart health, 58% had no symptoms. Of these, 46% had calcium deposits in their heart arteries — an early sign of atherosclerosis (heart blockage). 2.5% of these were under 40.
What to do: Go beyond ECG and cholesterol. There are more advanced tests like Apolipoprotein A1 & B, high-sensitivity C-reactive Protein, and Coronary Calcium Scoring with low-dose CT (which measures plaque deposits).
Mental health issues are often overlooked in men. A good health check should include screening for anxiety and depression, both of which directly affect physical health.
2. Fatty Liver
Fatty liver is no longer an alcoholic-only health concern. With the rise in obesity, diabetes and high cholesterol, metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver is now common among men. The report showed that of 2.5 lakh people screened, 65% had fatty liver, but 52% of them had normal liver enzymes.
What to do: Blood tests are not enough. Always include an abdominal ultrasound. For higher risk individuals, ask for a FibroScan to check for liver stiffness and early scarring.
3. Vitamin D and B12 Deficiency
You may not expect it, but 82% of men were found to be Vitamin D deficient, and 38% had low B12. These deficiencies, thought to affect women typically, can lead to tiredness, poor bone health, memory issues, and nerve damage.
What to do: Choose a health check that includes a vitamin panel.
4. Cancers
Men are at higher risk for certain cancers, especially lung, oral and prostate cancers. Indian men tend to be diagnosed younger, often in their 50s, and late detection affects treatment success.
What to do:
If you're a smoker (past or present), a low-dose CT is preferred for early lung cancer detection.
For men above 50, a PSA test is mandatory.
Regular oral cavity screening is key for tobacco users.
Final Thought
Waiting for symptoms to show up is like waiting for the fire alarm after your house has already burnt down. What you need is not just a routine health check, but one that looks deeper — with latest blood tests, advanced imaging, and assessment for mental health, sleep and cognitive function! Choose wisely.
Have questions for our doctors?
WhatsApp us at 89392 83283 or email us at sincerelyyourdoctor@ with your name, city and query.
'A Preventive Healthcare Initiative by Apollo ProHealth and The Hindu'
