The goal of these check-ups is primary prevention — preventing the development of disease — as well as secondary prevention, which means early detection of existing conditions that may affect these organs, says Dr. Radoja.
November is a month when we pay special attention to men’s health, education, and the importance of preventive examinations.
There is a particular emphasis on regular urological examinations of the male reproductive system — prostate, penis, and testicles.
Movember – When to schedule your first preventive check-up
“The purpose of these examinations is primary prevention, meaning the prevention of disease, but also secondary prevention, which includes early detection of existing conditions affecting these organs. The focus is primarily on early detection (secondary prevention) of malignant diseases such as prostate cancer and testicular cancer. Although malignant diseases of the penis are rare, they also should not be overlooked. Men are also informed about problems related to sexual function, especially erectile dysfunction, which can be the first sign of more serious, undiagnosed cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis,” explains Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ivan Radoja, specialist urologist and subspecialist in neurourology and urodynamics at IMC Priora.
Doctors also address psychological difficulties during consultations, such as depression and anxiety, as well as other disorders that may affect daily functioning, both in family and professional life.
This public health initiative is recognizable by the symbolic growing of mustaches during November, which inspired the name Movember, a combination of the English words “moustache” and “November.”
Prostate cancer – 2,800 men diagnosed annually
“In Croatia, around 2,800 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year, and in nearly 90% of cases, these are individuals over the age of 60. According to recommendations from international urological associations, all men aged 50 and older should undergo an annual urological examination, which includes measuring prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the blood and a digital rectal examination of the prostate. If there is a family history of prostate cancer — if the father, brother, grandfather, or uncle has been affected — examinations are recommended starting at the age of 45. Of course, regardless of age, a urological check-up can be performed earlier or more frequently, especially if symptoms or concerning laboratory findings are present,” notes Dr. Radoja.
Testicular cancer most commonly affects younger men, between the ages of 20 and 40. This is why annual preventive check-ups are also crucial for this population, including clinical and ultrasound examination of the testicles, as well as testing tumor markers such as AFP, β-HCG, and LDH, which may be elevated in certain types of testicular cancer.
“Equally important is testicular self-examination at home, at least once a month, paying attention to changes such as lumps, thickening of the testicle, changes in testicular size, or sensations of pain or discomfort. The same rule applies here: if symptoms or suspicious findings occur, a urological examination should be performed without delay, regardless of age,” emphasizes Dr. Radoja.
The earlier a disease is detected, the easier and more successful the treatment, and the better the outcomes. Regular urological check-ups save lives — visit your doctor and encourage other men to do the same.
