General information only, not medical advice – talk to your doctor about your health and any symptoms.
Last reviewed: 11 October 2026 · Published by Australian Men's Performance and Health Association Inc
Regular health checks become increasingly useful from your 40s onwards. They give you and your GP a chance to review your overall health, talk about any concerns and decide whether any tests are worthwhile.
This article describes in general terms what a men’s health check may involve. The specific tests, if any, are decided by your doctor based on your age, history, symptoms and risk factors. There is no single test list that suits everyone.
More than a blood test
A health check usually starts with a conversation. Your doctor may ask about your energy, sleep, mood, diet, physical activity, alcohol, smoking, work and family history. They may check your blood pressure, weight and waist measurement, and examine you if appropriate.
This conversation often guides which tests, if any, are useful. Blood tests are one tool among many, and results always need to be interpreted alongside your history and examination.
Blood tests a doctor may consider
Depending on your situation, a GP may consider tests such as a full blood count, kidney and liver function, blood glucose or HbA1c to look at diabetes risk, and cholesterol and other blood fats as part of assessing heart health. Iron studies, thyroid function or vitamin levels may be considered in some circumstances.
If you have particular symptoms, your doctor may consider other tests, including hormone tests. Some tests need fasting or a specific time of day, so follow the instructions you are given.
Other checks that may come up
Health checks for men over 40 may also include discussion of bowel cancer screening through the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program from age 45, skin checks, heart health risk assessment, eye and hearing checks, and vaccinations. Prostate health is another topic many men raise; your GP can explain the benefits and limitations of testing so you can make an informed decision.
Mental health and wellbeing are an important part of a check too. It is fine to raise stress, low mood or relationship pressures with your GP.
Why your doctor decides which tests
More tests are not always better. Unnecessary testing can lead to false alarms, further investigations and worry. Guidelines help doctors choose tests that are likely to be useful for someone with your age and risk profile.
Be cautious of services that sell large test panels directly to consumers without a doctor involved. Results without clinical context can be confusing, and they are no substitute for a proper assessment.
Understanding your results
Ask your doctor to explain your results and what they mean for you. Reference ranges vary between laboratories, and a result slightly outside the range may or may not be significant. Your doctor will consider the whole picture and may suggest repeating a test.
Keep a copy of your results and note when you are due for your next check. Many men find an annual or regular check-in with the same GP helpful.
Booking a health check
When booking, mention that you would like a general health check so the clinic can allow enough time. Ask about fees and whether Medicare rebates apply. Bring a list of any medicines, supplements or other products you use and any questions you want to ask.
Lifestyle conversations during a check
A health check is also an opportunity to talk about everyday habits. Your doctor may ask about physical activity, diet, alcohol, smoking or vaping, sleep and stress, and offer general information or point you towards other services, such as a dietitian, exercise physiologist or psychologist.
Be honest about your habits, including any supplements, performance products or substances you use. Doctors are used to discussing these topics, and accurate information helps them interpret results and give appropriate advice.
If you have a family history of conditions such as heart disease, diabetes or certain cancers, let your doctor know. Family history can influence which checks are recommended and when they start.
Following up
Sometimes a check leads to further tests, a follow-up appointment or a referral. Make sure you know how and when you will receive your results, and book any follow-up before you leave the clinic if you can. If you have not heard back when expected, contact the clinic rather than assuming everything is fine. Keeping your own record of results, dates and questions makes future appointments easier.
Frequently asked questions
How often should men over 40 have a health check?
It depends on your health and risk factors. Your GP can recommend how often you should have a check-up.
Will my doctor test my hormones?
Your doctor will decide whether any hormone test is appropriate based on your symptoms, history and examination.
Do I need to fast before blood tests?
Some tests require fasting and others do not. Follow the instructions your doctor or pathology collection centre gives you.
Related reading
Talk to your doctor
This article is general information only and cannot assess your individual situation. If you have questions about your health or notice changes that concern you, please talk to your doctor. A registered doctor can take your history, examine you and decide what, if anything, is appropriate for you. In an emergency, call 000.
AMPHA may receive fees for referring people to partner clinics, such as Third Spring Medical. Information on this site is general in nature and is not medical advice.