People often ignore the age of 40, considering it just a number. However, according to health experts, this is the time when the body gradually begins to show signs of changes. While previously the effects of staying up late, irregular eating habits, and stress were not immediately apparent, after 40, the body begins to demand accountability for these habits. Therefore, regular health checkups can be the most effective way to detect many serious diseases in their early stages.
Dr. Shelly Mahajan explained that after the age of 40, many biological changes begin to occur in men’s bodies. Metabolism slows down, hormonal changes occur, and the effects of years of lifestyle begin to show on health. Genetic risk factors and the stress associated with urban life in Indians further exacerbate these challenges.
Diabetes is one such disease that continues to harm the body for a long time without any symptoms. Weight gain, lack of physical activity, and stress are considered the main causes. Dr. Mahajan explains that relying solely on a fasting blood sugar test is not enough. The HbA1c test provides information on the average blood sugar level over the past two to three months, which can help better understand the risk of prediabetes and diabetes.
It is important to pay attention to heart health. Heart problems often develop for years without any obvious symptoms. According to research published in the National Library of Medicine, heart disease is one of the leading causes of death among adults in India. According to Dr. Shelly Mahajan, Indians develop heart problems at a younger age than people in Western countries. Therefore, regular monitoring of lipid profiles and blood pressure can help detect future risks early.
In addition, vitamin D and vitamin B12 deficiencies have also become common problems among Indian men. Symptoms like persistent fatigue, muscle weakness, and difficulty concentrating are often mistaken for signs of age or stress, but they can also be caused by nutritional deficiencies. According to Dr. Shelly Mahajan, vitamin D deficiency can weaken bones and affect calcium absorption.
Regular checkups of the prostate, liver, and kidneys after the age of 40 should not be ignored. Many prostate-related problems do not show any symptoms in the early stages. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and kidney diseases can also progress silently over time.