What percentage of your workforce is male, between the ages of 20 and 50?

When men feel healthy, they often neglect their preventive care and regular health screenings. But men aged 20 to 50-something might not be as healthy as they think. Consider the following statistics about the health of American men:

• Only 37% get exercise on a regular basis

• 23% are smokers

• 20% have heart disease

• 31% have high blood pressure

• 75% are overweight

• 33% are obese

• 12% are in fair or poor health

Even men in their prime need regular check-ups to stay healthy. Some of the most important exams, screenings, and immunizations for working age men are:

Cholesterol. Men should be screened for lipid disorders every 5 years or so starting at age 35. Screenings should begin earlier and take place more frequently for men who are diabetic, overweight, or have a family history of unhealthy cholesterol levels.

Prostate cancer. Men should decide – with their doctors – whether to be screened for prostate cancer annually, starting at age 50. Screenings should begin at age 45 or earlier for men who are African American or have a family history of prostate cancer.

Diabetes. By age 45, men should begin to have regular screenings for diabetes. Men who are overweight, obese, have a family history of diabetes, or are African American, Latino, Native American, or of Asian descent should being screenings sooner.

Testicular cancer. Most commonly occurring in men between 20 and 39, testicular cancer is often curable if it is found early. While testicular cancer only accounts for about 1% of the cases of cancer in men, it is important that men speak with their doctors to determine their own level of risk.

Tetanus, measles, flu… Childhood vaccinations require booster shots throughout adulthood to prevent diseases that can cause serious illness or even death under some circumstances. Immunizations prevent the spread of disease.

To encourage healthy preventive care habits among the men in your workforce, visit anthem.com/timewellspent, and click on “Men’s Wellness.” You’ll find free articles, posters, and funny video clips that will encourage your employees to take preventive care seriously.