Hitting your 40s is a big deal. It's a time to think about what's ahead, and a massive part of that is your health. While you might feel great, it's a fact that as men get older, the risk of certain cancers goes up. This is why getting some simple health checks, called screenings, is so important.
Cancer screenings are a way for doctors to find cancer early, often before you even have any symptoms. When cancer is found at this early stage, it's much easier to treat and beat. This article is a simple checklist to help you talk to your doctor about your health. We'll go through five key cancer screenings every man over 40 should know about.

1. Prostate Cancer Screening

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men worldwide. While it often grows slowly, making it highly treatable when caught early, the importance of regular screening cannot be overstated.

What to Know:

• Who should be screened? The general recommendation is for men to start a conversation with their doctor about screening at age 50. However, if you are at a higher risk, this discussion should begin earlier. Men with a family history of prostate cancer (father or brother diagnosed before age 65) or African-American men, who have a higher incidence of the disease, should consider starting this conversation at age 45, or even at 40 if there are multiple close relatives affected.
• What are the tests? There are two primary screening tests for prostate cancer:

1. Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: This is a simple blood test that measures the level of PSA, a protein produced by the prostate gland. Elevated levels can indicate the presence of prostate cancer. Still, they can also be caused by other non-cancerous conditions like an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia) or a prostate infection (prostatitis). The PSA test is often the first step in screening. 

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2. Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): During a DRE, a doctor inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel the prostate gland for any lumps, hard areas, or abnormalities. This exam is quick and provides valuable physical information about the gland's condition.

2. Colorectal Cancer Screening

Colorectal cancer, which includes cancer of the colon and rectum, is another primary concern for men as they age. However, it is also one of the most preventable and curable cancers when detected early. Precancerous growths, called polyps, can be found and removed during screening, preventing cancer from ever developing.

What to Know:

• Who should be screened? The latest guidelines recommend that men of average risk begin screening at age 45. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or specific genetic syndromes, your doctor may advise you to start earlier.
• What are the tests? There are several screening options available:

1. Colonoscopy: This is considered the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening. A thin, flexible tube with a camera is used to examine the entire colon and rectum. Any polyps found can be removed during the procedure. A colonoscopy is typically performed under sedation and is recommended every 10 years for those with average risk and no findings.
2. Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): This is a non-invasive at-home test that checks for hidden blood in your stool, which can be a sign of polyps or cancer. This test is done annually.
3. Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: Similar to a colonoscopy, but it only examines the lower part of the colon. It is a quicker procedure, often without sedation, and is typically recommended every five years.

3. Lung Cancer Screening

Lung cancer is a severe disease, and the most significant risk is smoking. Screening is mainly for people who have a history of heavy smoking.

What to Know:

• Who should be screened? Men aged 50 to 80 with a substantial history of smoking should discuss lung cancer screening with their doctor. This includes those who currently smoke or have quit within the last 15 years, with a "20 pack-year" smoking history (meaning smoking one pack a day for 20 years, or two packs a day for 10 years, and so on).
• What is the test? The recommended screening test is a low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scan. This is a painless imaging procedure that takes detailed pictures of your lungs, allowing doctors to detect small nodules that may be cancerous.

4. Skin Cancer Screening

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, and it's highly curable if found early. It’s essential to keep an eye on your skin, especially if you’ve spent a lot of time in the sun.

• What to Know:
• Who should be screened? All men should perform regular self-examinations. Suppose you have a history of significant sun exposure, fair skin, a large number of moles, or a family history of skin cancer. In that case, you should consider getting regular professional skin checks.
• What is the test? There is no single screening test for skin cancer. It involves a visual inspection of your skin.

1. Self-Examination: Learn the "ABCDEs" of melanoma to check for suspicious moles: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Colour changes, Diameter (larger than a pencil eraser), and Evolving (changes in size, shape, or colour).
2. Professional Skin Exam: A dermatologist will conduct a full-body visual inspection, examining moles and other skin lesions. They may use a magnifying tool to get a closer look.

5. Oral Cancer Screening

Oral cancer, which includes cancers of the mouth, tongue, and throat, is often associated with tobacco and alcohol use. Early detection is key to a good prognosis.

• What to Know:
• Who should be screened? Men who smoke, use chewing tobacco, or drink heavily are at a higher risk and should be screened regularly. However, oral cancer can affect anyone, and it’s a good idea for all men over 40 to be mindful of this screening.
• What is the test? Oral cancer screening is typically part of a routine medical or dental examination. Your doctor or dentist will visually and manually inspect your mouth, tongue, throat, and neck for any lumps, red or white patches, or sores that don't heal.

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Conclusion

Incorporating these five cancer screenings into your healthcare plan after 40 is one of the most proactive steps you can take to safeguard your long-term health. Don't wait for symptoms to appear; by then, the disease may be more advanced.
This checklist is not a substitute for professional medical advice, but a starting point for an informed conversation with your doctor. They can help you create a personalised screening schedule based on your risk factors, family history, and lifestyle. Taking these steps is an investment in your future, one that can provide peace of mind and, most importantly, a healthier life.