Doctor highlights importance on health check ups for men

June 22, 2026 - 00:52

With Father's Day falling on June 21 and the entire month dedicated to Men's Health, a local physician is reminding men that routine check-ups can be life-saving. Dr. Mark Sullivan, a primary care specialist, notes that many men avoid the doctor until symptoms become severe, often missing early warning signs for conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.

"Men tend to downplay their health concerns," Dr. Sullivan said. "They might feel invincible or simply too busy to schedule an appointment. But a simple blood pressure reading or cholesterol test can reveal a lot." He emphasizes that preventive care is not just for older adults. Young and middle-aged men should also monitor their weight, stress levels, and lifestyle habits.

The doctor recommends annual physicals for men over 40, with earlier screenings for those with a family history of chronic illness. Key tests include blood glucose checks, prostate exams, and colorectal cancer screenings. He also advises paying attention to mental health, as depression and anxiety often go undiagnosed in men.

"Taking an hour for a check-up is a small investment compared to months of treatment for a preventable disease," Dr. Sullivan added. As Father's Day approaches, he encourages families to remind the men in their lives to book an appointment.