With many diseases or illnesses, symptoms don’t occur until later stages— often when they create much more serious health issues and are more difficult to treat.

In observance of Men’s Health Month this June, health care providers are issuing a call-to-action to prioritize regular screenings and physicals to catch chronic diseases before they occur.

According to a Cleveland Clinic survey, men are significantly less likely than women to see a doctor or report symptoms to a health care provider. Only 60 percent of men get an annual physical or checkup, and 40 percent of men report not going to a medical provider until something is wrong. Because of this, men are more likely to develop chronic diseases and illnesses compared to women.

“Men tend to sweep everything under the rug until something bad happens,” said family medicine physician Trey Pritchett, M.D., with Piedmont Physicians at Green Island. “Patients should not have the misconception that if nothing is wrong, they should not go in for a physical. You're going in for a physical to make sure you are not at an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, etc.

In addition to an annual physical, here are some top men’s health screenings doctors recommend:

1. Heart disease risk assessment. Cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of men over 40. There are new screening tests and technologies to better identify both those at risk and those with early signs of cardiovascular disease. This cardiovascular assessment and discussion should begin in your 30s.

2. Colorectal screening. The American Cancer Society recommends that people at average risk for colorectal cancer start regular screening at age 45. At your annual physical, you and your provider can discuss when you should schedule your first colorectal screening based on your personal risk factors.

3. Prostate screening. Prostate cancer is the second-most common cancer in men in the United States. At your annual physical, you and your provider can discuss when you should schedule your first prostate screening based on your age and personal risk factors.

1. Lung cancer screening. Screening is recommended annually for adults ages 50 to 80 who have a 20 pack-year smoking history and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years.

Dr. Pritchett also recommends annual mental health screenings, which can typically be initiated by questionnaires during a primary care provider visit. Regular skin cancer exams and additional screenings may be recommended by physicians for various conditions based on certain risk factors, such as family history and lifestyle choices. A primary care physician can help you determine what screenings are best for your long-term health.

Visit doctors.piedmont.org to find a Piedmont primary care provider near you.