Men's Health Screening: A Guide for Your Well-being
14 Apr 2025
7
Minutes
Katrin Straub
CEO at nextsure
Many men neglect preventive examinations, but early detection can save lives. Find out which check-ups you're entitled to and how you can actively protect your health. This article provides you with a clear guide through the most important preventive appointments.
The topic in brief and concise terms
Men are entitled to preventive services starting from the age of 18, beginning with dental check-ups; the general health check-up is scheduled every three years from the age of 35.
Specific cancer screenings for men include skin cancer screening (from age 35, every two years), prostate/genital cancer (from age 45, annually), and bowel cancer (from age 50, various options).
A one-time abdominal aorta ultrasound for early detection of aneurysm is covered by health insurance for men aged 65 and over.
Preventive Health Care Plan for Men: An Overview of the Most Important Examinations
Many men wonder: Which preventive examinations are relevant for me, and at what age should I start them? The good news is: The German healthcare system provides a range of sensible early detection examinations, the costs of which are covered by statutory health insurance. Preventive care begins at the age of 18 with a bi-annual dental check-up. Between the ages of 18 and 35, men are also entitled to a one-time general health check-up. This serves as an initial assessment of one’s health. Regular participation in preventive examinations can significantly reduce the risk of long-term effects. This initial overview already shows that preventive care is a topic for every age group and does not only begin in advanced age. The following presentation gives you a detailed insight into the recommended measures.
The Health Check-Up from 35: Foundation of Prevention
From the age of 35, men with statutory insurance are entitled to a comprehensive health check-up every three years. This examination, often referred to as the 'Check-Up 35', is a key component of preventive healthcare. The doctor performs a thorough physical examination, measures blood pressure, and takes blood samples for laboratory tests (blood sugar, cholesterol levels). A urine sample is also analyzed to detect early signs of kidney disease or diabetes, for example. The aim is the early detection of common illnesses such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, and kidney diseases. Only about 17 percent of those eligible take advantage of this important preventive opportunity. As part of the check-up, vaccination status is also reviewed, and advice is provided on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. A health check-up insurance can cover additional services. This check forms an important basis for further specific preventive measures.
Skin Cancer Screening: Protection for the Largest Organ
From the age of 35, men can also have a skin cancer screening every two years. During this examination, the entire skin surface is inspected by a trained doctor, often a dermatologist or qualified general practitioner, for suspicious changes. In Germany, over two hundred thousand people are newly diagnosed with skin cancer each year. The screening aims to detect both the dangerous black skin cancer (malignant melanoma) and the more common forms of white skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma) at an early stage. When detected early, skin cancer is usually very treatable. The examination typically takes only about 15 minutes. Remember to regularly monitor your skin yourself. The next important stage of men's health care concerns specific types of cancer that occur more frequently with age.
Cancer screening for prostate and genitals: A must from 45
From the age of 45, men are entitled to an annual examination for the early detection of prostate cancer and cancers of the external genitalia. Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer among men in Germany, with approximately sixty-six thousand nine hundred new cases each year. During this screening, the doctor palpates the prostate from the rectum to detect any hardening or enlargement. Additionally, the external genital organs and regional lymph nodes in the groin are examined. Although palpation cannot detect all tumors, it is an important initial measure. The PSA test, a blood test for determining prostate-specific antigen, is not a regular insurance benefit for early detection without a concrete suspicion, but can be a worthwhile individual health service (IGeL) and should be discussed with the doctor. A cancer insurance can provide additional security here. Colon cancer prevention is another important pillar of oncological prevention.
Bowel cancer screening: Take early action from age 50
Bowel cancer screening is an essential part of men's health checks from the age of 50. Men have several options here, the costs of which are covered by health insurance. Between the ages of 50 and 54, men can have an annual immunological test for hidden blood in the stool (iFOBT). Alternatively, men can opt for an initial preventive colonoscopy from the age of 50; a second one follows after at least ten years if the findings are clear. The colonoscopy is considered the most reliable method, as it not only detects cancer but also precursors (polyps), which can often be removed immediately. If a man decides against the colonoscopy, he can take the stool test every two years from the age of 55. Each year, about fifty-eight thousand nine hundred people are newly diagnosed with bowel cancer in Germany. A private pension insurance can help to close financial gaps in the event of illness. With increasing age, another specific examination is added.
Ultrasound of the Abdominal Artery: One-Time Opportunity from 65
Men aged 65 and over are offered a one-time ultrasound examination for the early detection of aneurysms of the abdominal artery (abdominal aortic aneurysm). An aneurysm is a pathological expansion of the main artery in the abdominal area, which can remain unnoticed for a long time. The risk of such an aneurysm increases with age; men are about four to six times more likely to be affected than women. If a large aneurysm ruptures, there is an acute danger to life due to internal bleeding. The ultrasound examination is painless and only takes a few minutes. If an aneurysm is detected early, it can be regularly monitored and treated if necessary, before it becomes dangerous. This examination completes the range of the most important insurance-funded preventive services. But what if you think beyond these basic services?
Expert Depth: Individual Health Services and Extended Preventive Care
In addition to the standard services provided by statutory health insurance, there are further examinations that can be meaningful in certain cases but often need to be paid for personally as Individual Health Services (IGeL). This includes, for example, the previously mentioned PSA test for prostate cancer screening without specific suspicion. Extended cardiovascular checks, such as an exercise ECG or a cardiac ultrasound, can also be conducted based on specific risk profiles or upon personal request. Many men opt for such additional examinations to gain a more comprehensive picture of their health. The costs for these vary depending on the examination and medical practice, often ranging from twenty to one hundred fifty euros. Our expert tip: Speak openly with your doctor about your individual risk factors and which additional tests might be particularly advisable for you. Income protection insurance is also an important component of personal security. The following list shows some examples of IGeL services:
PSA test for enhanced prostate cancer screening
More comprehensive blood tests (e.g., vitamin levels, extended liver values)
Exercise ECG to assess heart performance under exertion
Ultrasound examinations of organs (e.g., thyroid, other abdominal organs)
Measurement of intraocular pressure for early glaucoma detection
Bone density measurement for osteoporosis risk
Careful consideration of the benefits and costs is crucial here. Understanding your own health is the first step to a long, active life.
Strengthening personal responsibility: More than just doctor visits
Conclusion: Take control of your health actively
More useful links
The German Cancer Society offers comprehensive information on urological screening as part of early cancer detection.
The Federal Ministry of Health provides detailed information on cancer early detection.
The Cancer Information Service of the German Cancer Research Center provides extensive information on cancer prevention and early detection.
The Federal Joint Committee (G-BA) offers specific insurance information on colorectal cancer screening for men.
The German Cancer Society delivers specific information on the early detection of prostate cancer.
The Federal Ministry of Health offers further information on men's health in the context of prevention and precaution.
The Men's Health Portal provides a current fact sheet on men's health.
FAQ
Why are preventive check-ups important for men?
Preventive examinations are important for the early detection of diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, or diabetes. Early diagnosis significantly improves the chances of recovery and can prevent severe consequences. Many diseases initially cause no symptoms.
What role does lifestyle play in male health screening?
A healthy lifestyle is a key component of prevention. A balanced diet, regular exercise, non-smoking, and moderate alcohol consumption can significantly reduce the risk of many common male diseases and support the effectiveness of preventive examinations.
What are IGeL services and are they useful for men?
IGeL (Individual Health Services) are examinations that are not typically covered by statutory health insurance, such as the PSA test without specific suspicion. Whether an IGeL is advisable depends on the individual risk profile and should be discussed with a doctor.
Do I need to see a specialist for preventive examinations?
Many preventive examinations, such as the general check-up or skin cancer screening, can be conducted by your GP. For specific examinations like a colonoscopy (gastroenterologist) or prostate check-up (urologist), a specialist is typically responsible. Your GP can refer you accordingly.
What happens if something unusual is found during a preventive examination?
If an abnormal finding is detected during a preventive examination, your doctor will initiate further diagnostic steps to determine the cause. This may include additional blood tests, imaging procedures, or a tissue sample. The aim is always to achieve a quick and accurate diagnosis, so that treatment can be started if necessary.
How can I prepare for a preventive health check-up?
Most check-ups don't require any special preparation. For blood tests (e.g. blood sugar, cholesterol), you may need to appear fasting. A colonoscopy requires prior bowel cleansing. Your doctor will provide you with detailed information in advance.
