Our Guide to the Most Common Men’s Health Issues

1. Reproductive and Urological Health

Many men come to see us with symptoms related to their reproductive or urinary health. 

The most common conditions include:

• Prostate problems: Enlargement of the prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia) can cause urinary symptoms like a weak stream, urgency, or waking up at night to urinate. Prostate cancer is also a key concern, particularly in men over 50 or those with a family history.
• Testicular health: Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young men aged 15–45. Regular self-examination can help spot any unusual lumps or changes early.
• Erectile dysfunction (ED): Often thought of as just a sexual health issue, ED can also be an early sign of heart disease, diabetes, or other underlying conditions.
• Sexual health concerns: We offer confidential support for sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening, sexual health advice, and contraception discussions, including vasectomy referrals if appropriate.

If you’re experiencing any changes with urinary symptoms, sexual health, or notice anything unusual, it’s important to get checked.

2. Cancers Affecting Men

We encourage all men to be aware of the cancers that commonly affect them and to attend any recommended screenings where available.

• Prostate cancer: Risk increases with age, and early prostate cancer may not cause symptoms. We can discuss PSA testing and other assessments based on your personal risk factors.
• Testicular cancer: As mentioned above, knowing how your testicles normally feel can help you spot changes early.
• Bowel cancer: Men are slightly more likely than women to develop bowel cancer. Look out for changes in your bowel habits, blood in your stool, or unexplained weight loss. Screening is offered from age 60 (earlier in some cases). We can arrange simple tests to look for hidden blood if you have symptoms at any age. 
• Skin cancer: Men, especially those working outdoors, are at higher risk. Regularly checking your skin for new or changing moles is important.

If you notice anything unusual or you’re not sure what to look out for, our GPs are here to guide you.

3. Mental Health

Mental health is just as vital as physical health, but men are often less likely to seek support.

Conditions we commonly support men with include:

• Depression and anxiety
• Stress-related health issues
• Substance misuse
• Suicidal thoughts
• PTSD and trauma-related conditions

Mental health issues can affect anyone, regardless of age or background. It’s important to know you’re not alone.

We offer a safe, non-judgemental space to talk and can help connect you with therapies, medication, and lifestyle strategies that can make a real difference.

4. Heart Health

Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death among men in the UK.

Key risk factors include:

• High blood pressure
• Raised cholesterol
• Smoking
• Being overweight (especially with weight distributed around your middle)
• Type 2 diabetes
• A family history of early heart disease

Sometimes, the first sign of heart disease can be a serious event like a heart attack, but there are often earlier warning signs.

Regular check-ups, blood pressure monitoring, and blood tests can help identify issues before they become serious.

Symptoms to watch out for include chest discomfort, the sensation of a racing heart, shortness of breath, fatigue, or pain in the arms, jaw, or back.

Remember, if you are exhibiting any of these serious symptoms or have any concerns, you should call 999.

5. Weight and Metabolic Health

Being overweight increases the risk of many of the most common men’s health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, certain cancers, and joint problems.

We offer personalised weight management advice and support, including help with:

• Nutrition and healthy eating plans
• Exercise programmes
• Managing blood sugar and cholesterol levels
• Preventing or reversing early type 2 diabetes

Even small, sustainable changes can have a big impact over time.

Supporting Your Health with a Well Man Check

If you’re looking for a more in-depth review of your health, we offer a dedicated Well Man Health Check at the practice.

This is a comprehensive assessment designed to look at the key aspects of men’s health, tailored to your age, lifestyle, and personal risk factors.

The check includes:

• Review of your personal and family health history
• Blood pressure and BMI measurement
• ECG
• Blood tests to check for diabetes and cholesterol levels, and, where appropriate, PSA testing for prostate health
• Individualised cardiovascular risk calculation 
• Prostate and testicular health check
• Mental health and wellbeing review

Additional tests, such as hormone profiles, thyroid function tests, and vitamin D and B12 levels, can be arranged where clinically indicated.

It’s an opportunity to discuss any concerns you may have, even if you’re currently feeling well.

Preventative care is an important part of what we do, and a Well Man Check can help detect early signs of common conditions so they can be managed proactively.

You can find out more or book an appointment by visiting our Well Man Health Check page.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to your health, doing nothing is the biggest risk.

Staying proactive with your health means you’re more likely to catch potential problems early, whether it’s heart disease, prostate issues, diabetes, or mental health concerns.

A Well Man Check offers the chance to take stock, ask questions, and make informed decisions about your health and well-being.

If you’ve noticed changes, have any concerns, or simply want reassurance that everything’s on track, we’re here to help.

Get in touch with the practice and take an active step towards looking after your long-term health.

Did you know we also offer Well Woman Health screening as a service? We’ve written a guide on the most common women’s health problems here.