6 Tests All Men Need

Most men are more likely to get a tune-up for their car than they are a checkup for themselves. While the stereotype may be true in many instances, those who go to the doctor for regular visits tend to have longer, healthier lives.  Here, six tests every male should undergo so you don't let your health take a backseat.

1. Prostate exams. Prostate cancer is second only to skin cancer when it comes to the most common cancers found in men. The good news is that it's highly preventable. Be sure to receive both a Digital Rectal Exam and a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test.

2. Colonoscopy. According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer claims nearly 100,000 lives each year. Although this number may seem daunting, it has been dropping steadily. Doctors attribute this fact to improvements in testing, especially in the colonoscopy. If you're 50 or older, see your doctor about undergoing one as soon as possible.

3. Blood pressure tests. One in three Americans has high blood pressure-the majority of which are men, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). High blood pressure can lead to other critical health conditions such as strokes, heart disease, and kidney failure. It is recommended to test yearly, especially if you are at high risk.

4. Cholesterol levels. According to the American Heart Association, 50.8 million men have total cholesterol levels that are considered borderline-high risk. Men 20 years and older should have the fasting blood lipid panel done every five years or so. Men 35 and older should undergo regular cholesterol testing.

5. Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) testing. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, more than 13 million people in the United States are infected each year and more than 65 million have an incurable STD. If you're sexually active, being tested every 6 months to a year can help stop the spread of disease.

6. Testicular cancer exam. According to the American Cancer Society, 8,000 men are diagnosed with testicular cancer and approximately 390 men die of the disease each year. The majority of cases occur between the ages of 20 and 54. While you can perform self exams, the American Cancer Society suggests all men have a testicular exam with their routine physicals.