Men’s health markers to monitor through Private Blood Tests this Movember
Movember marks an important moment in the year to think about Men’s health,
Generally, men in the UK are not great at taking care of their health. They ignore injuries and will avoid going to their GP for general health issues, paying little attention to symptoms that may be indicative of major health issues.
The statistics are sobering. One in five men die before reaching the age of 65. The biggest cause of death in men is cancer, followed by circulatory disease.
But, with more spotlight on men’s health, not only during November, but more generally as we consider our wellbeing post-pandemic, you might be wondering what to look out for, when it comes to health screening.
"With GP waiting times increasing in many practices, and appointments for non-urgent care more difficult to access, private blood testing is becoming a common alternative for many people looking to take control of their health.”
Risk areas in male health
When it comes to men’s health, there are various factors which are worth monitoring.
Testosterone
Testosterone is most associated with sex drive, and it plays a crucial part in the production of sperm. But testosterone also affects bone and muscle mass, influences how men store body fat, and the production of red blood cells. While testosterone levels do naturally start to decline with age, low levels could suggest a hormone disorder.
When levels of testosterone are low, there are a range of symptoms which can present themselves, including:
- Breast growth
- Fatigue
- Impotence
- Loss of body hair
- Reduced sex drive
- Reduced testicle size
- Skin changes
- Weakness
Cancer
Your risk of developing prostate cancer increases with age, but that doesn’t mean it’s a disease that only affects old men. Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men worldwide and early detection is extremely important.
While some men will experience changes in urinary or sexual function that might indicate the presence of prostate cancer, not everyone experiences symptoms. Many times, signs of prostate cancer are first detected by a doctor during a routine check-up.
Heart health
According to the British Heart Foundation, one in seven men will die from heart disease compared with one in 11 women, and of the 2.3 million people living with heart disease in the UK, 60 per cent are men.
Heart disease has long been Britain’s biggest single killer. Despite our efforts to ward off its risk factors with more exercise and a healthier diet, the statistics remain concerning, particularly for men, so it can be a good idea to keep a close eye on your heart health.
General health
Alongside men’s health checks such as the ones mentioned above, general health screening is worth considering if you’re looking at optimising your overall health. Tests for common conditions and diseases such as diabetes, thyroid, liver and kidney function and vitamins and minerals can reveal vital information about your health status, giving you the tools needed to make any necessary changes to optimise your wellbeing.
Private blood tests for men’s health
With GP waiting times increasing in many practices, private blood testing is becoming a common alternative for many people looking to take control of their health.
At Private Blood Tests we offer a comprehensive range of blood testing options for men’s health, both standalone, and as part of a larger profile of diagnostic checks to help you get a complete picture of your health.
Our Comprehensive Plus Z Male profile includes tests for red and white blood cell quality, thyroid function, kidney and liver function, a check for diabetes, as well as essential elements and vitamins, autoantibodies, cardiac risk factor analysis and a test for prostate cancer (PSA), allowing you to check your current nutritional status and overall health.
Booking your private men’s health test
We make sure the experience of booking a private blood test is as easy, convenient, and painless as possible. By partnering with Spire Healthcare, we make the process simple and seamless by offering easy-to-book appointments at your local Spire Hospital. Here’s how it works:
As well as male health testing we have a comprehensive range of health checks and diagnostic blood tests available, including diabetes, immunity checks, thyroid, and fatigue testing.
After you have selected the right test for you, simply order online through our secure payment system or chat to a member of our team. Once your order is placed, you’ll receive all the information you need to arrange your convenient blood draw appointment at one of our Spire Hospital locations.
How your appointment works
We partner with Spire Healthcare to offer a professional phlebotomy service. This guarantees that your blood samples are taken and handled correctly and that your results are processed efficiently by clinical professionals. Our confidential blood tests are available at over thirty private clinics around the UK.
Unlike home testing healthcare kits, where you take the sample yourself, our trained professionals reduce the likelihood of errors such as collecting an insufficient amount of blood or accidental contamination, which could delay your test results.
At your appointment, the friendly team will talk to you about your test, collect your blood sample and send it off for testing at an accredited partner laboratory. All you need to do is arrive for your appointment. We’ll take care of the test, and the rest.
Clear, accurate results
The time it takes to receive your results will depend on the type of test you have chosen. When they are ready, your results will be sent directly to you, via email, within the time specified. If you would prefer to receive a paper copy of your results through the post, that can be arranged for you.
You can also choose the option of reported or unreported results. Reported results include information and comment from our GP which you may find helpful to discuss with your own consultant, or for your records.