Being a dad means a lot of things—coach, provider, protector, grill master, and sometimes the family handyman. But one role that often gets overlooked: Taking care of your own health.
This Father’s Day, instead of just firing up the grill or opening another pair of socks, consider giving yourself something that actually lasts: a check-up. Staying healthy isn’t just about you—it’s about being there for your kids today, next year, and decades down the road.
Think of health screenings like routine maintenance for your body. You wouldn’t skip oil changes and expect your car to run forever, right? The same idea applies here.
Let’s talk about a few key screenings every dad should keep on the radar.
Blood Pressure: The Silent Problem
High blood pressure is one of the most common—and most ignored—health issues in men. The tricky part? You usually don’t feel it.
Uncontrolled blood pressure increases your risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney problems, and even cognitive decline. In the United States, hundreds of thousands of deaths each year are linked to high blood pressure.
Ideally, your blood pressure should be less than 120/80. It’s quick, easy, and can be checked at your provider’s office or even at a pharmacy. Just make sure you’re resting when it’s taken. A simple check today could prevent a major problem tomorrow.
Colon Cancer Screening: Not as Bad as You Think
Starting at age 45, colon cancer screening becomes important. And yes—no one is excited about it. But here’s the reality: screening can detect early changes like polyps before they turn into cancer.
Colorectal cancer remains one of the most common cancers in men, with tens of thousands of new cases diagnosed each year in the U.S. Screening saves lives—plain and simple. Options include colonoscopy or stool-based tests like Cologuard or other tests. It might be uncomfortable or a little awkward, but it’s a small price to pay for prevention.
Prostate Cancer Screening: Let’s Clear This Up
A lot of guys avoid this conversation because of outdated fears. The good news? Screening has evolved.
The PSA blood test is now commonly used as an initial screening tool. The digital rectal exam (DRE) is no longer the automatic first step in many cases.
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, and decisions about screening should be made through shared decisionmaking, weighing risks and benefits. False positives can happen, so it’s important to have an informed discussion.
The Bigger Picture: Prevention Is Power
Screenings aren’t about finding problems—they’re about preventing them. When dads stay healthy, families are stronger. Research continues to show that fathers play a major role in shaping their children’s health habits, from diet to activity levels and beyond.
So, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it sets the standard. Make this Father’s Day count this year, do something different. Schedule that annual visit. Check your numbers. Ask questions. Because being a great dad isn’t just about showing up today—it’s about being around for all the moments still to come. Your future self—and your kids and family—will thank you.
– Mark Taylor, FNP-C, is a provider at Health West North Logan. He loves getting to know his patients and seeing their excitement when their health improves. He earned his master’s degree in nursing from Chamberlain University and speaks both English and Spanish.
