3 leading causes of men’s health problems

Studies have shown that men are 30% less likely to visit their GP with a concern and, when it comes to conditions that need to be caught early, this can have critical consequences.

For Men’s Health Week, we’re taking a look at three of the most common conditions that impact men’s health.

It’s an unfortunate fact that men tend not to visit the doctor when they should.

Studies have shown that men are 30% less likely to visit their GP with a concern and, when it comes to conditions that need to be caught early, this can have critical consequences.

For Men’s Health Week, we’re taking a look at three of the most common conditions that impact men’s 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.

The risk of developing prostate cancer increases with age, but that doesn’t mean it’s a disease that only affects older 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, something that will be missed if you’re not visiting your GP.

Testosterone is most associated with sex drive but it also affects bone and muscle mass, influences how men store body fat, and is involved in 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

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. If you’re looking for a complete MOT which can highlight potential problems and get you on track to better health, our comprehensive Wellman blood tests are a great option.  

These tests include:

• Mitochondrial
• Gastric Parietal Cell
• Microsomal and ribosomal antibodies
• Rheumatoid Facto
• Magnesium
• Cortisol
• HIV
• Hepatitis B
• Surface Antigen
• Hepatitis C Antibodies
• Syphilis Antibodies
• Carcino Embryonic Antigen & Prostate Specific Antigen
• Ferritin
• Vitamin D (25 OH)
• C reactive Protein
• Vitamin B12
• Vitamin B9 (Folate)
• Lipoprotein (a)
• Apolipoprotein A1
• Apolipoprotein B

And Our Comprehensive Plus Z Male profile, including 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.

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.

Your pathology passport – the information sent to you after you place your order – will also tell you whether you need to fast ahead of your test. Included in each request for testing are:

• A doctor’s referral
• All phlebotomy
• All laboratory fees
• Our GP’s comments (optional)

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.

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.

Find out more and book your private diabetes blood test