Description

Routine blood testing is an essential part of preventive health care for men. Understanding key biomarkers can help detect silent risk factors for serious conditions like cardiovascular disease, hormonal imbalances, inflammation, prostate health concerns, and infectious diseases. This curated panel includes 10 of the most clinically relevant blood tests for men, offering a comprehensive view of metabolic, hormonal, immune, and cardiovascular health.

Included Biomarkers

1. C-Reactive Protein, High Sensitivity (CRP-hs)

A highly sensitive marker of low-grade inflammation that can predict cardiovascular disease risk.

  • Clinical relevance: Elevated CRP-hs levels are associated with an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and metabolic syndrome.

2. Estradiol

A form of estrogen that plays a role in bone density, fat distribution, and libido, even in men.

  • Clinical relevance: Imbalances in estradiol may affect sexual function, body composition, and mood.

3. DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone)

A precursor hormone that contributes to the production of testosterone and estrogen.

  • Clinical relevance: Low DHEA levels are associated with aging, fatigue, decreased libido, and reduced immune function.

4. Fibrinogen

A key protein involved in blood clotting and also an acute-phase inflammatory biomarker.

  • Clinical relevance: Elevated fibrinogen is linked to increased cardiovascular risk and may be elevated in chronic inflammatory conditions.

5. HIV-1/2 Antigen and Antibodies Test, Fourth Generation (with Reflexes)

Detects both HIV antigens and antibodies, offering early and accurate screening.

  • Clinical relevance: Fourth-generation testing can detect HIV infections earlier than antibody-only tests, making it a cornerstone of sexual health screening.

6. Homocysteine

An amino acid linked to vascular inflammation and cardiovascular risk.

  • Clinical relevance: Elevated homocysteine levels may increase the risk for heart disease, stroke, and cognitive decline.

7. Lipoprotein(a)

A cholesterol-carrying particle with genetic links to atherosclerosis.

  • Clinical relevance: Elevated Lp(a) is an independent and heritable risk factor for heart disease and is not influenced by lifestyle alone.

8. Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA)

A protein produced by the prostate gland used to screen for prostate health and prostate cancer risk.

  • Clinical relevance: Elevated PSA levels may indicate prostate enlargement, inflammation, or malignancy and should be evaluated in context.

9. Testosterone (Bioavailable) with SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin)

Measures bioavailable (active) testosterone and SHBG, which affects hormone availability.

  • Clinical relevance: Helps assess symptoms of low testosterone, including fatigue, low libido, depression, and muscle loss.

10. Fasting Glucose or Lipid Panel (optional addition)

Though not listed originally, these are typically paired for metabolic screening.

  • Fasting required: for accurate assessment of glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides if included.

Fasting Requirements:

  • Fasting: Recommended, especially if paired with glucose or lipid testing.
  • Avoid food and caloric beverages for 8–12 hours before the test; water is allowed.

Why These Tests Matter:

These blood tests provide insight into:

  • Cardiovascular risk
  • Hormonal balance and aging
  • Prostate and sexual health
  • Inflammation and clotting tendencies
  • Immune status and infection screening

Ideal For:

  • Men seeking baseline health information
  • Those with a family history of heart disease, diabetes, or prostate issues
  • Men over age 35–40, or earlier with risk factors or symptoms

Taking control of your health starts with understanding your numbers. This comprehensive men's health panel supports early detection and long-term wellness planning.