While much is said about the need for women to get regular check-ups to screen for disease and illness, men sometimes tend to get overlooked. And too often, many men do not take their own health seriously until they become ill. But their medical needs are just as important. Men of all ages are especially at risk for certain types of cancers and heart disease. Because of these risks, they should be routinely screened for both.

You can help by encouraging the men you know to get the proper check-ups. The following are suggestions only. A man's medical history, family history and overall state of health may require him to get different screenings. He should talk with his doctor about his specific needs and check with his insurance to see what is covered.

Between the ages of 19-39, men should consider visiting their doctor every year or every other year for a routine physical exam including:

• blood pressure check
• blood tests
• digital rectal exam

These tests help doctors screen for health problems ranging from hemorrhoids to cancer. Just as women should perform monthly breast self-examinations, men should do monthly testicular self-exams to check for the early stages of testicular cancer.

After turning 40, men should ask their doctor about prostate cancer screening and what would be best for them. If they smoke, their doctors may want them to start getting chest x-rays. Starting at age 45, men should be screened for diabetes every three years.

Upon turning 50, men should see their doctors more frequently for routine check-ups as well as colon cancer screenings.

At every age, it’s also important to receive regular dental check-ups, vision screenings and hearing tests.

• Read more about the importance of men's health
• Men's health recommendations