Why Men Skip Preventive Screenings

Research consistently shows that men are less likely than women to seek routine medical care. According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, men are significantly less likely to have visited a doctor in the past year. The gap isn't explained by biology — it's largely behavioral and cultural.

Perceived invincibility, discomfort with medical settings, fear of bad news, and the practical challenge of taking time off work all play a role. The result: conditions like hypertension, high cholesterol, colorectal cancer, and type 2 diabetes go undetected until they're harder — and more expensive — to treat.

Understanding which screenings get skipped most often, and why, is a practical first step. See our overview of screenings recommended at every life stage for a broader reference point.

1

Assuming no symptoms means no problem.

Why it happens: Many men operate on the logic that if nothing hurts, nothing is wrong. This is reinforced by busy schedules that make it easy to deprioritize appointments when feeling well.

How to avoid: Conditions like hypertension, high cholesterol, prediabetes, and early-stage colorectal cancer often produce no noticeable symptoms. Schedule screenings based on age and risk guidelines — not on how you feel. Ask your primary care provider which asymptomatic conditions you should be screened for at your next visit.
2

Skipping the annual blood pressure check because 'it's been fine before.'

Why it happens: A normal reading in your 30s creates a false sense of permanent safety. Blood pressure tends to rise with age, weight changes, and stress — often without warning.

How to avoid: Blood pressure can be measured at a doctor's office, pharmacy kiosk, or community health clinic. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends screening for hypertension in all adults 18 and older. If your last reading was more than a year ago, it's time to check again.
3

Delaying colorectal cancer screening past age 45.

Why it happens: Many men associate colonoscopies with discomfort, fear embarrassment, or simply don't realize that non-invasive stool-based tests are now a recognized alternative for average-risk individuals.

How to avoid: The USPSTF recommends colorectal cancer screening starting at age 45 for average-risk adults. Discuss the full range of screening options with your doctor — including stool DNA tests and colonoscopy — to find one you're likely to follow through on. See what most doctors recommend for a clear breakdown of these options.
4

Ignoring mental health as part of routine preventive care.

Why it happens: Cultural norms around masculinity often discourage men from acknowledging or discussing mental health struggles, making them unlikely to request or accept depression and anxiety screenings during a physical exam.

How to avoid: Depression and anxiety are screenable, treatable conditions. The USPSTF recommends screening adults for depression, including men. You don't need to initiate a long conversation — simply telling your provider you'd like to be screened is enough. Learn more about mental health screenings in primary care.
5

Avoiding lipid panel (cholesterol) testing because there's no family history.

Why it happens: Men often believe cardiovascular risk is inherited and, without a family red flag, assume they're safe. Diet, weight, physical activity, and other lifestyle factors independently shape cholesterol levels.

How to avoid: Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among American men. The USPSTF and American Heart Association both recommend regular cholesterol screening for men starting in their 30s or earlier if risk factors are present. A simple blood draw is all it takes.
6

Treating a primary care provider as someone you only see when sick.

Why it happens: Without a standing relationship with a primary care doctor, men have no natural touchpoint for discussing preventive care. Annual visits feel unnecessary when healthy.

How to avoid: Establishing ongoing care with a primary care provider creates a baseline for your health over time and ensures screenings are tracked, scheduled, and followed up appropriately. Think of it as routine maintenance — not emergency repair. Review the screenings most adults need to come to your next appointment prepared.

Common Mistakes Men Make With Preventive Care

Each of the following errors reflects a pattern that healthcare providers see regularly. Recognizing them isn't about blame — it's about removing the specific barrier standing between you and a test that could genuinely matter.

40%

Men without a routine healthcare visit last year

According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 40% of men report not seeing a doctor in the past 12 months, compared to roughly 24% of women.

#1

Leading cause of death among American men

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for men in the United States, according to the CDC — a condition screenings like blood pressure and cholesterol checks are specifically designed to catch early.

45

Age to begin colorectal cancer screening

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force updated its recommendation, advising adults at average risk to begin colorectal cancer screening starting at age 45, down from the prior recommendation of 50.

Pairing these insights with everyday lifestyle habits can further strengthen your long-term health foundation beyond what screenings alone provide.

This article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider to discuss which screenings are appropriate for your individual age, health history, and risk factors.

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Health & Wellness Editorial Team · Contributor

Health & Wellness Editorial Team is the collective byline for our editorial team and contributor network. Articles published under this byline or an editorial pen name are researched, written, and reviewed according to our editorial standards for clarity, consistency, and independence before publication.

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