Publications
Men: Screening Exams by Age
Focused on Health - September 2012
Take this checklist to your next doctor’s appointment. Your doctor can help you develop a more tailored screening plan if needed.
These exams are for men at average risk of cancer. If you believe you may be more likely to develop cancer because of your personal or family medical history, visit our screening guidelines page to learn about exams for men at increased risk.
All Ages (20 and older)
Men older than age 20 should practice testicular and skin awareness. This means you should be familiar with your skin and testicles. Look for changes, so that you can report any differences to your doctor without delay.
Testicular cancer is more commonly found in younger men, and it’s very curable when found in its early stages. Screening exams play an important role in finding this cancer early.
Ages 45-49
- Digital Rectal Exam and PSA Test every year to check for prostate cancer if you are African American or have a family history (father, brother, son) of prostate cancer. If you are not African American or do not have family history, you should start screening at age 50.
Ages 50-84
- Digital Rectal Exam and PSA Test every year to check for prostate cancer
- Colonoscopy or Virtual Colonoscopy every 10 years to check for colorectal cancer
Age 85 and older
MD Anderson does not recommend colorectal and prostate cancer screening for men age 85 and older. If you’re age 76 to 85, your doctor can help you decide if you should continue screening.
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