Men’s Health: What to Know About Ages, Stages, and Testosterone

When it comes to men’s health, it’s common to put routine care on the back burner, especially when you’re feeling fine day-to-day. But staying on top of your health can help you catch potential concerns early and help you feel your best at every stage of life.

The latest webinar from The Break Room, our exclusive series for Premise Health members, focused on the health priorities that evolve as you age, when to talk with your provider about changes you notice, and what testosterone can — and can’t — tell you about your health.

During “Men’s Health: What to Know About Ages, Stages, and Testosterone,” Dr. Sean Sharma explored the importance of routine checkups and screenings throughout a man’s life.

“An annual physical is a routine check-in that gives you the chance to see how things are going, check your blood pressure and cholesterol, talk through any changes you’ve noticed, review your family history, and make sure your health stays on track through the years,” said Dr. Sharma. “Many common health conditions, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and Type 2 diabetes, can develop quietly over time, sometimes without obvious symptoms. Regular checkups help identify issues earlier, when they’re often easier to manage.”

Attendees also learned Dr. Sharma’s top areas to keep an eye on as you age, from how to recognize changes that deserve a conversation with your provider to where to draw the line between fact and fiction when it comes to testosterone, low testosterone, and treatment options.

Men’s health is more than testosterone.

Men’s health needs can change with age, and overlooking those changes can affect every part of life, from productivity at work to enjoying the things you love. Whether it’s heart health, sexual health, or mental wellbeing, don’t brush off changes or assume they’re just part of getting older.

Regular checkups give you and your provider a chance to talk about important screenings, changes in your health, and ways to lower your risk for future health concerns. Getting a professional opinion on what’s normal — and what’s worth a closer look — matters at every stage of life.

Testosterone is one area where questions often come up, according to Dr. Sharma.

While it’s true that hormone levels naturally fluctuate with age, low energy or other symptoms don’t necessarily mean low testosterone. Plus, testing and treatment for testosterone levels aren’t one-size-fits-all, so it’s important to collaborate with your primary care provider and understand what’s behind your symptoms before considering your options.

This includes talking with your provider and pharmacist about some of the over-the-counter products marketed to men and what to know before trying them. These products can sometimes increase certain health risks or even decrease testosterone levels, and it’s important to work with your care team on the best approach for your age, history, and goals.

Take a moment to think about your health: When was your last checkup? Are there symptoms or changes you’ve been putting off or trying to address on your own? Start the conversation at your next primary care visit and get the real insights needed to feel your best as you get older.

Premise Health can help men make their wellbeing a priority.

Premise Health providers can help you understand what’s important for your age and stage of life, answer your questions, and connect you with the right care and resources. Whether you need routine preventive care or support for a specific concern, you don’t have to navigate men’s health alone.

If you’re a member, or believe you may be a member, reach out to your employer or wellness center to learn more about the benefits available to you through Premise. You may have access to primary care, wellness coaching, nutritionists, and other services designed to support your health at every stage. Plus, your primary care provider can also help you determine which screenings and preventive services may be right for you and refer you to additional resources in your community as needed.

At Premise, we take a prevention-focused approach to care and work with your human resources or benefits team to develop custom wellness programs that fit the needs of your organization. When members have access to exclusive wellness centers, they can get personalized, whole-person care for their next stage of life. If you’re a leader looking to promote better health as your members age, contact us today to find out how we can support your population for years to come.