7 Things to Know About Your Health in Your 40s
Reaching your 40s is an important time to focus on your health. Changes in your body and lifestyle may require extra attention. Understanding what to look for and what actions to take can help you stay healthier now and for years to come. Below are seven practical tips and checkups that matter most for men in their 40s.
1. Pay Attention to Heart Health
The risk of heart disease goes up as you get older. Taking care of your heart is essential.
- What to do: Make time for regular aerobic exercise, such as walking, biking, or swimming. Choose foods that are good for your heart.
- What to check: Get your blood pressure measured every year. Visit your doctor for cholesterol tests. Ask your doctor if you need an EKG or heart stress test, especially if you have risk factors.
2. Watch Your Weight and Metabolism
Metabolism can slow down in your 40s. This can lead to weight gain and a higher chance of diabetes.
- What to do: Eat a balanced diet with vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Cut back on processed foods and extra sugars.
- What to check: Get checked for diabetes every 3 years with a fasting blood sugar or HbA1c test. You may need this more often if you are overweight or have a family history of diabetes.
3. Take Care of Your Prostate
The prostate can change in midlife. This may cause urinary symptoms or increase cancer risk.
- What to do: Pay attention if you start having frequent urination, a weak urine stream, or trouble urinating. Talk to a healthcare provider if you notice any of these signs.
- What to check: Ask your doctor about the benefits and risks of a PSA blood test for prostate health, especially if prostate cancer runs in your family.
4. Bone Health Is Important
Bone strength may decrease as you age, raising your risk for broken bones.
- What to do: Make weight-bearing exercise, such as jogging or strength training, a regular habit.
- What to check: Ask about a bone density test if you have risk factors, such as past fractures or a family history of osteoporosis.
5. Support Your Mental Health
Mental health can be affected by stress from work, family, or other life changes.
- What to do: Use stress management methods like mindfulness, meditation, or yoga. Seek help if you feel symptoms of anxiety or depression.
- What to check: Ask about mental health screenings when you have your annual physical.
6. Look After Sexual Health and Hormone Levels
Testosterone may decrease during your 40s. This can lower energy and affect libido.
- What to do: Follow a healthy diet, stay active, and aim for regular sleep to help keep hormones balanced.
- What to check: If you notice less energy, a lower sex drive, or have trouble with erections, ask your doctor about testosterone testing.
7. Keep Up with Cancer Screenings
Cancer risk increases with age. Regular screenings can catch problems early.
- What to do: Do not use tobacco. Drink alcohol in moderation. Use sunscreen to lower your risk of certain cancers.
- What to check:
- For colon cancer: Start colonoscopy screenings at 45—or sooner if you have higher risk.
- For skin cancer: Schedule a yearly skin check with a dermatologist, especially if you are at increased risk.
Summary Table: What to Do and What to Check in Your 40s
| Health Area | What to Do | What to Check |
|---|---|---|
| Heart Health | Regular exercise, heart-healthy diet | Blood pressure, cholesterol, EKG if needed |
| Metabolism | Maintain healthy weight, balanced diet | Fasting blood sugar, HbA1c |
| Prostate | Watch for urinary changes | PSA test (after discussion with doctor) |
| Bone Health | Weight-bearing exercises | Bone density scan (if at risk) |
| Mental Health | Practice mindfulness, reduce stress | Mental health screenings |
| Hormones | Keep healthy habits | Testosterone level (if needed) |
| Cancer | Avoid risk factors, protect skin | Colonoscopy, skin check |
Following these steps and keeping up with recommended screenings can help protect your health and improve your quality of life in your 40s and beyond.
