Why men put off check-ups, and why it matters
Busy work weeks, shift work, family commitments and a sense of “she’ll be right” mean many men only see a GP when something is clearly wrong. But several common conditions, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol and type 2 diabetes, often cause no symptoms at first. A regular check-up gives you and your GP a chance to spot changes early, when they’re usually easier to manage.
What a men’s health check can include
Every check-up is tailored to you, but your GP may talk about or check:
- Blood pressure, which is quick and simple
- Heart health, including your risk of heart attack and stroke based on factors such as age, blood pressure, cholesterol, smoking and diabetes
- Cholesterol and blood sugar, usually with a blood test. Pathology is collected onsite at Delacombe Medical Centre on weekdays
- Weight, waist measurement and physical activity
- Smoking, vaping and alcohol, without judgement, and support if you want to cut back
- Skin, including any spots that have changed
- Mental health, sleep and stress
- Vaccinations you may be due for
Checks at different ages
In your 20s and 30s: blood pressure, lifestyle, mental health, sexual health and vaccinations are common topics.
From 45: heart health checks become more relevant. Through the free National Bowel Cancer Screening Program, people aged 45 to 49 can request a home test kit, and from 50 to 74 a kit is mailed every two years. The test takes a few minutes at home and can find early signs of bowel cancer.
Prostate health: testing for prostate cancer is a personal decision with benefits and limitations. If you’re over 50, or younger with a family history, talk it through with your GP so you can make an informed choice.
Mental health is men’s health
Feeling flat, stressed, irritable or not sleeping well is common, and it’s worth talking about. Your GP can listen, help you understand what’s going on and discuss options, which may include a mental health treatment plan and referral to a psychologist. If you need to talk to someone now, Lifeline is available on 13 11 14, 24 hours a day.
How to prepare for your appointment
- book a longer appointment if you’d like a full check-up
- write down any symptoms or questions, even ones that feel awkward
- bring a list of your medicines and supplements
- find out your family history of heart disease, diabetes and cancer if you can
Our clinic is open seven days, including weekends, which can make it easier to fit a check-up around work.
Heart health: know your numbers
Heart disease is a leading cause of death for Australian men. Many risk factors can be measured and managed. Ask your GP about your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and whether a heart health check is right for you. Small, steady changes such as moving more, eating more vegetables and wholegrains, cutting back on alcohol and quitting smoking can all make a difference.
Work, injuries and your health
Many men in Ballarat work in trades, transport, agriculture and other physical roles. Back pain, joint injuries, hearing and sun exposure are common work-related concerns. If you’ve been injured at work, let reception know when you book so your appointment can be set up correctly. WorkCover consultations are handled differently from bulk billed visits.
Starting the conversation
If you’re not sure where to begin, you can simply say: “I’d like a general check-up” or “I’ve been meaning to get something checked.” Your GP will guide the conversation. It’s okay to bring up sensitive topics such as sexual health, erectile problems, urinary symptoms, drinking or mood. These are common and often linked to other health issues, such as heart health or diabetes.
Family history matters
Knowing whether your father, brothers or other close relatives have had heart disease, diabetes, prostate cancer or bowel cancer can change which checks are recommended and when. If you can, ask family members before your appointment.
Movember and beyond
Each November, Movember raises awareness of men’s health, including mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer. Our team got behind Movember this year, but the best time to book a check-up is whenever you can. Our clinic is open seven days, including weekends.
Frequently asked questions
It depends on your age, health and risk factors. Many adults benefit from a check-up at least every one to two years. Your GP can recommend what suits you.
At a Medicare Bulk Billing Practice, eligible GP services are bulk billed for patients with a valid Medicare card. Pathology may be billed separately by the laboratory.
Not always. Your GP will tell you if fasting is needed for the tests they order.
Sources and further reading
This article is general health information and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Information is current as at November 2026 and may change. Always speak with your GP about your own health. In an emergency, call 000.
Talk to a GP about your health
Bulk billed for eligible patients with a valid Medicare card. Open seven days at Delacombe Town Centre.
