When should men start preventive care: A guide to your health
14/04/25
6
Minutes
Katrin Straub
Managing Director at nextsure
Many men neglect preventive check-ups, but early detection can save lives. Find out which checks you are entitled to and how you can actively protect your health. This article offers you a clear guide through the most important preventive appointments.
The topic in brief and concise terms
Men are entitled to preventive care from the age of 18, starting 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 screening (from age 45, annually) and bowel cancer screening (from age 50, various options).
A one-off ultrasound scan of the abdominal aorta for early detection of aneurysms is paid for by health insurance for men aged 65 and over.
Preventive care schedule for men: the most important examinations at a glance
Many men ask themselves: which preventive examinations are relevant for me, and from what age should I start? The good news is that the German healthcare system provides a range of sensible early detection examinations, the costs of which are covered by statutory health insurance funds. From the age of 18, preventive care begins with the half-yearly dental check-up. Between the ages of 18 and 35, men are also entitled to a one-off general health check-up. This serves as an initial assessment of health. Regular participation in preventive examinations can significantly reduce the risk of late complications. This first overview already shows that preventive care is a topic for every stage of life and does not only begin in later years. The following overview gives you a detailed insight into the recommended measures.
The health check-up from 35: a foundation for prevention
From the age of 35, men with statutory health insurance are entitled to a comprehensive health check-up every three years. This examination, often also referred to as the “Check-Up 35”, is a key building block of preventive healthcare. The doctor carries out a thorough physical examination, measures blood pressure and takes blood for laboratory tests (blood glucose, cholesterol levels). A urine sample is also analysed to identify, for example, early signs of kidney disease or diabetes. The aim is to detect common illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus and kidney disease at an early stage. Only around 17 per cent of all eligible people take advantage of this important preventive opportunity. As part of the check-up, vaccination status is also reviewed and advice on a healthy lifestyle is provided. A health check-up insurance can cover additional services. This check provides an important basis for further, more specific preventive measures.
Skin cancer screening: protection for the body's largest organ
Also from the age of 35, men can have a skin cancer screening every two years. During this examination, the entire surface of the skin is checked for suspicious changes by a trained doctor, often a dermatologist or a qualified GP. In Germany, more than two hundred thousand people are newly diagnosed with skin cancer every year. The screening aims to detect both the dangerous black skin cancer (malignant melanoma) and the more common forms of non-melanoma skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma) at an early stage. Detected early, skin cancer is highly curable in most cases. The examination usually takes only about 15 minutes. Remember to regularly check your skin yourself as well. The next important stage of men's preventive care concerns specific types of cancer that become more common with age.
Cancer screening for the prostate and genitals: A must from age 45
From the age of 45, men are entitled to an annual examination for the early detection of cancers of the prostate and the external genitalia. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in Germany, with around sixty-six thousand nine hundred new cases each year. During this screening, the doctor examines the prostate from the rectum to detect any hardening or enlargement. In addition, the external genitalia and the regional lymph nodes in the groin are examined. Although the palpation examination cannot detect all tumours, it is an important first measure. The PSA test, a blood test to determine prostate-specific antigen, is not a standard health insurance benefit for early detection without a specific suspicion, but it can be a useful individual health service (IGeL) and should be discussed with the doctor. A cancer insurance policy can provide additional security here. Bowel cancer screening is another important pillar of oncological prevention.
Bowel cancer screening: act early from age 50
Colorectal cancer screening is an essential part of men's preventive care from the age of 50. Men have several options here, the costs of which are covered by health insurance providers. 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 their first preventive colonoscopy (colonoscopy) from the age of 50; a second follows at the earliest after ten years if the findings are unremarkable. Colonoscopy is considered the most reliable method, as it can detect not only cancer but also precancerous stages (polyps), which can often be removed immediately. If a man chooses not to have a colonoscopy, he can have the stool test every two years from the age of 55. Each year, around fifty-eight thousand nine hundred people in Germany are newly diagnosed with colorectal cancer. A private pension insurance policy can help close financial gaps in the event of illness. As you get older, another specific examination is added.
Ultrasound of the abdominal aorta: Take advantage of a one-off opportunity from 65
Men aged 65 and over are offered a one-off ultrasound scan for the early detection of aneurysms of the abdominal aorta (abdominal aortic aneurysm). An aneurysm is an abnormal widening of the main artery in the abdomen, which can remain unnoticed for a long time. The risk of such an aneurysm increases with age; men are affected about four to six times more often than women. If a large aneurysm ruptures, there is an acute risk to life from internal bleeding. The ultrasound scan is painless and takes only a few minutes. If an aneurysm is detected early, it can be monitored regularly and treated if necessary before it becomes dangerous. This examination completes the range of the most important health insurance-funded preventative care services. But what if you think beyond these basic services?
In addition to the standard services covered by statutory health insurers, there are further examinations that may be sensible in individual cases, but often have to be paid for privately as Individual Health Services (IGeL). These include, for example, the PSA test mentioned earlier for early detection of prostate cancer without specific suspicion. More extensive cardiovascular checks, such as an exercise ECG or a heart ultrasound, can also be carried out for certain risk profiles or at your own request. Many men choose such additional examinations in order to gain a more comprehensive picture of their health. The costs vary depending on the examination and the medical practice, often in the range of twenty to one hundred and fifty euros. Our expert tip: speak openly with your doctor about your individual risk factors and which additional tests might be personally recommended for you. An income protection insurance policy is also an important component of personal financial protection. The following list shows some examples of IGeL services:
PSA test for more comprehensive early detection of prostate cancer
More extensive blood tests (e.g. vitamin levels, extended liver function values)
Exercise ECG to assess heart performance under exertion
Ultrasound examinations of organs (e.g. thyroid, other abdominal organs)
Intraocular pressure measurement for early glaucoma detection
Bone density measurement for osteoporosis risk
Careful consideration of benefits and costs is crucial here. Knowing your own health is the first step towards a long, active life.
Strengthening self-responsibility: More than just doctor visits
Preventive check-ups are an important pillar of maintaining good health, but they are not enough on their own. A healthy lifestyle makes a significant contribution to reducing the risk of many illnesses. This includes a balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables, few processed products and healthy fats. Regular physical activity, at least one hundred and fifty minutes of moderate exercise per week, strengthens the cardiovascular system and helps prevent obesity. Giving up smoking and consuming alcohol in moderation are also crucial. Even small changes in everyday life can have a major impact on long-term health. Stress management and sufficient sleep round off a preventive lifestyle. If you need support in adapting your way of life, speak to your doctor; they can recommend suitable programmes or advice. A supplementary care insurance policy can provide financial security if needed. Actively shaping your own lifestyle is the best addition to medical check-ups.
Conclusion: Take an active role in managing your health
Regular participation in preventive check-ups is an investment in your health and quality of life. Men’s preventive care offers important check-ups from various age groups, which are covered by health insurers and help to detect serious illnesses at an early stage. Take advantage of these services – from dental check-ups from the age of 18, through the health check-up from 35, to specific cancer screening examinations and aortic screening from 65. Less than half of eligible men take up cancer screening examinations. Complement this medical prevention with a healthy lifestyle. Speak to your doctor about your individual preventive care plan and possible additional benefits. Your health is worth it. Request an individual risk analysis now: Have your insurance situation checked free of charge and receive specific recommendations for optimisation.
More useful links
The German Cancer Society offers comprehensive information on urological screening examinations as part of cancer screening.
The Federal Ministry of Health provides detailed information on cancer screening.
The Cancer Information Service of the German Cancer Research Centre provides detailed information on cancer prevention and early detection.
The Federal Joint Committee (G-BA) offers specific information for insured persons on colorectal cancer screening for men.
The German Cancer Society provides 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 screening.
The Men’s Health Portal provides an up-to-date fact sheet on men’s health.
FAQ
Why are preventive check-ups important for men?
Preventive check-ups are important for detecting diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease or diabetes at an early stage. An early diagnosis significantly improves the chances of recovery and can prevent serious consequences. Many illnesses do not initially cause any symptoms.
What role does lifestyle play in men's preventive care?
A healthy lifestyle is a key part of preventive care. A balanced diet, regular exercise, not smoking and moderate alcohol consumption can significantly reduce the risk of many common men’s health conditions and support the effectiveness of preventive check-ups.
What are IGeL services and are they worthwhile for men?
IGeL (individual health services) are examinations that are not routinely paid for by statutory health insurers, e.g. the PSA test without a specific suspicion. Whether an IGeL is sensible depends on the individual risk profile and should be discussed with the doctor.
Do I need to see a specialist for preventive check-ups?
Many preventive examinations such as the general check-up or skin cancer screening can be carried out by your GP. For specific examinations such as a colonoscopy (gastroenterologist) or prostate screening (urologist), a specialist is usually responsible. Your GP can refer you accordingly.
What happens if something unusual is found during a preventive check-up?
If an abnormal finding is detected during a preventive examination, your doctor will initiate further diagnostic steps to clarify the cause. These may include further blood tests, imaging procedures or a tissue sample. The aim is always to obtain a quick and accurate diagnosis so that treatment can be started if necessary.
How can I prepare for a preventive check-up?
No special preparation is required for most preventive examinations. For blood tests (e.g. blood glucose, cholesterol), you may need to attend on an empty stomach. For a colonoscopy, prior bowel cleansing is required. Your doctor will inform you in detail beforehand.
