Testicular self-examination is important in this age group as cancer of the testicles is more common than among middle-aged men. It can almost always be cured, particularly if diagnosed early, but some young men find it particularly difficult to seek help for lumps in this area.

Cholesterol levels should be measured, particularly if there is a family history of this symptomless problem.

Health in the 40s
This is the period when men tend to become more aware of the aging process. Although grey hair or even baldness may be suggesting that immortality isn't an option, it is a time where most of us stay healthy. Accident and murder are still the most common causes of death for 40-year-old men. At this period of their lives, smokers can bring on cancer and heart attacks, while heavy drinkers run the risk of liver and digestive problems.

During the 40s, there is no doubt that there is no greater health priority for a smoker than giving up. Non-smokers will increase their life expectancy by sticking to safe sex, driving carefully, exercising and watching their diet. But smokers need to give up before they can look forward to these benefits.

Men who go in for a full medical 'MoT' test will be given lots of X-rays, examinations and other tests, but the only one that is really necessary at this age is a rectal examination. This is because prostate cancer - detectable with a rectal examination - is the leading fatal cancer in non-smoking men in their 40s. The other tests often show up many small abnormalities that have no significance.

Health in the 50s
Routine health checks become more significant for men in their 50s. Men become more concerned about developing diseases. They are increasingly set in their ways and less likely to die through violence, or have unprotected sex.

Dr Ian Banks, a GP and the Royal Society of Medicine's spokesperson for men's health, told NetDoctor: 'Men should have a prostate test when they turn 50-plus whether they have symptoms or not. Research is increasingly showing that the early diagnosis of problems is associated with a better outcome. Although more evidence is needed, we already know enough to justify the test, which should be repeated at least every two years,' he said.

Another test that becomes necessary after the age of 50 is a sigmoidoscopy. This involves examining the rectum for colon cancer by using a camera fitted on a flexible tube. It is now recommended that this test be repeated every five years.

Health checks for the older man
Men in their 60s and 70s are advised to have an annual urinalysis. This is a test involving a strip that, when dipped in urine, can reveal a number of conditions including diabetes and urinary tract cancer.

As a man gets older, the chances of him succumbing to an illness are greatly increased. Warning signs should now be acted on fast. Therefore, a good relationship with your doctor is essential.

Dr Steven Boorman, principal adviser to the Post Office's Employee Health Services, said: 'An annual MoT for men is a good idea. It allows men to develop a relationship with a doctor that they consider to be safe. Trust builds up so that the man will return year after year. But they don't want to be given every test under the sun and made to feel that every day could be their last.'

Men don't respond to generalities about good living unless they can relate directly to it. As BUPA's medical director, Dr Andrew Vallance-Owen, put it: 'Tell a man that eating five pieces of fruit and vegetables a day is good for him and he will nod in agreement and do nothing about it. But tell him it will result in great sex and he will develop a passion for the fruit bowl.'

According to BUPA's research, the male view of good health is being fit, feeling great, being active with lots of energy and a good sex life. Men want to feel either well or ill, with no shades in between. When they do get sick they want to be fixed just like they have their car fixed, with no messing about. They don't want to go in for medical checks and procedures just for the sake of it and many doctors are beginning to agree with them.

Although men are often blamed for neglecting their medical care or leaving it entirely in the hands of their wives, there is in this case a definite logic to their position. Health checks clearly have a useful function, but if they are not going to prevent illness or prolong life, why bother with them?

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