Health Checks Every Man Should Have
Men's Health Week is a timely reminder that most serious conditions affecting men have no warning signs. Here's what to ask your GP about — and why the conversation around men's mental health matters just as much.
Why Preventive Health Matters for Men
Men's Health Week (16–22 June 2026) exists for a straightforward reason: men are significantly less likely than women to visit a GP for preventive care, and significantly more likely to be living with a condition they do not know about.
Most conditions that seriously affect men, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers and deteriorating mental health, develop quietly, without noticeable symptoms, until they are harder to manage. Routine checks do not take long and can make a meaningful difference to long-term health outcomes.
Health Checks Every Man Should Consider
Blood Pressure Check High blood pressure has no reliable symptoms. Around one in three Australian men live with it without knowing. Left unmanaged, it significantly increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. A blood pressure check takes minutes at your GP clinic.
Blood Tests: Cholesterol and Blood Sugar A fasting blood test gives your GP important information about your cardiovascular and metabolic health. These checks are particularly relevant for men over 40, or younger men with a family history or other risk factors.
Skin Check Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, and men are more likely than women to be diagnosed with melanoma. A full skin check with your GP is the appropriate pathway, self-diagnosis is not reliable.
Cancer Screening Bowel cancer screening is available through the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program for eligible Australians. If you have a family history of bowel or other cancers, speak with your GP about whether earlier or more frequent screening is appropriate for you.
Mental Health Check-In Men account for approximately 75% of Australians who die by suicide each year, yet are significantly less likely to seek help when struggling. A Mental Health Check-In with your GP is a confidential conversation about how you are going. If further support is needed, your GP can put together a Mental Health Care Plan, which may give you access to Medicare-rebated sessions with a psychologist, subject to eligibility.
Warning signs worth discussing include withdrawing from friends or family, increased alcohol use, significant changes in sleep or mood, irritability, or feeling numb or flat over a prolonged period.
Reproductive and Sexual Health Concerns about sexual health, fertility or reproductive health are areas many men find difficult to raise. Your GP is a safe and appropriate place for these conversations.
Dr Ryan Barton: Men's Health at FMP Kirrawee
At FMP Kirrawee, Dr Ryan Barton has a particular interest in men's health and men's mental health, sports medicine, and the conditions that often go undiscussed. He brings a grounded, non-judgmental approach to exactly those conversations. Dr Ryan is available at Kirrawee on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
How to Book
A single GP appointment can cover several of these checks at once. Let reception know when you book so they can allocate appropriate time.
Book at your nearest FMP clinic: Kirrawee, Woolooware or Kurnell. Visit familymedicalpractices.com.au.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
