DEAR MAYO CLINIC: Since I turned 40, my clinic has been sending me a slew of reminders about men's health screenings. Are they really necessary?

ANSWER: Yes! Blocking out some time for these important health screenings is one of the most important things you can do for yourself.

Historically, men have been hesitant to seek medical attention when something seems wrong with their health. Also, they aren't as likely as women to have preventive screenings and checkups. This is a problem because early detection is the best way to effectively treat and manage a medical issue. 

If you're reluctant about seeing a healthcare professional, rethink your hesitation. Delaying or avoiding a checkup or screening could lead to a treatable situation turning deadly. Here are the exams and screenings to add to your to-do list for a healthy life.

Regular physical exams. Males older than 50 should have a yearly physical exam, and those younger than 50 should have a physical exam every three to five years.

A regular exam isn't just about screenings. It can validate that you're healthy, and it's your chance to ask your healthcare professional about issues or symptoms that are bothering you. For instance, if you're having issues with erectile dysfunction, this could be a symptom of coronary artery disease. The sooner it's addressed, the better for your overall health.

Vaccines are also essential to prevent infectious diseases. Vaccinations for men are administered at different intervals throughout adulthood. 

Health isn't only physical, so talk with your healthcare team about your mental and emotional health. If you're struggling in those areas, effective help is available. 

While you may only need to get some screenings once, such as HIV and hepatitis C, you should have screenings for certain conditions and cancers regularly. Keep in mind that earlier and more regular screening is recommended for all these conditions if you're at higher risk.

Abdominal aortic aneurysm. Because the aorta is the body's main supplier of blood, a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm can cause life-threatening bleeding. Men 65 to 75 who have used tobacco products should undergo a one-time ultrasound screening. Those over 60 with a family history of abdominal aortic aneurysm should consider repeat screening at regular intervals. 

Colon cancer. Experts advise that most adults at average risk begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45. Several screening tests are available, including stool-based tests and exams that look directly at the colon. Each test has different benefits, risks and testing schedules. But if you experience symptoms, don't wait to get screened.

Diabetes. If you're older than 35, you should have an initial blood sugar test. No matter your age, if you have a body mass index above 25 and additional risk factors, such as high blood pressure or a family member with diabetes, you should be screened. Type 2 diabetes and prediabetes symptoms can develop slowly and may not be noticeable. 

Blood pressure. A blood pressure reading is a good indication of many aspects of your health. High blood pressure can lead to other physical problems, especially heart-related conditions. Beginning at age 18, you should have your blood pressure checked at least every two years, and every year if you're at risk for high blood pressure and after you turn 40.  

Cholesterol. Like high blood pressure, high cholesterol may pose serious risks to your health and well-being. Starting at age 17, men at average risk for heart disease should have a cholesterol screening every four to six years and more frequently over age 40. If you have conditions such as high blood pressure and/or diabetes, a family history of high cholesterol or heart attacks, smoke, eat a poor diet, are overweight, have diabetes or are physically inactive, you should be tested more often.

Prostate cancer. Around age 50, talk with your healthcare professional about prostate cancer screening. Together, you can decide whether screening is right for you. If you're Black, have a family history of prostate cancer or have other risk factors, consider screening earlier.

Lung cancer. If you have an increased risk of lung cancer, consider yearly screening, which uses low-dose CT scans. If you smoked heavily for many years, your healthcare professional may recommend lung cancer screening at age 50 and older. Screening is also offered to people who have quit smoking in the past 15 years. Discuss your lung cancer risk with your healthcare professional to decide if lung cancer screening is right for you.

Do yourself and your family a favor by protecting your health with regular checkups and screenings. Add to that exercise and managing your body weight, mental health and stress, all of which are part of keeping you healthy.

Mohammed Solaiman, M.D., Family Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Mankato, Minnesota

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