A Men’s Health Q&A With Dr. Nathan Starke
Men’s Health Awareness Month offers an important opportunity to highlight the unique health challenges men face, the screenings they often delay, and the conditions that too often go untreated. In this conversation, Dr. Nathan Starke—former Medical Director of the Men’s Health Clinic at Houston Methodist—explains why men avoid care, which symptoms should never be ignored, how conditions like low testosterone and prostate disease are identified, and what men in their 20s through 50s and beyond should be doing to protect their long-term health. Read or watch the full interview below.
Q: Why is Men’s Health Awareness Month important? Why do we need this kind of dedicated time to talk about men’s health specifically?
Dr. Starke: I’m glad you asked. One of the biggest challenges in men’s health is that men tend to avoid talking about their health—and often avoid the doctor entirely. Having these conversations out in the open is important for two reasons:
- Getting men in for standard screenings and routine care before problems develop.
- Raising awareness about specific men’s health issues that affect quality of life—issues many men don’t realize can be treated.
Q: Are men missing important screenings by waiting until their 40s or 50s to see a doctor?
Dr. Starke: Very often, yes. In your 20s, most people feel healthy and never go to the doctor. But by your 30s—and certainly by your 40s—you should establish care with a primary care doctor for routine checks.
In urology, for example, erectile dysfunction or low testosterone evaluations often uncover underlying conditions such as heart disease. Symptoms related to urination, sexual function, or general vitality are common in men and are often treatable with lifestyle changes, medication, or surgery.
Q: People tend to think of men’s health as being focused on “the middle area,” but what else does it include?
Dr. Starke: Men’s health is absolutely about more than that. Take low testosterone, for instance—a huge buzzword today. While it’s marketed heavily (sometimes by less scrupulous actors), it’s a real and common issue.
Low testosterone can affect:
- Energy
- Mood
- Sleep
- Exercise ability
- Overall vitality
Men’s health is really the whole picture—physical, hormonal, and emotional.
Q: If a man in his 40s feels sluggish, weaker, or “off,” what should he ask his doctor to look at first?
Dr. Starke: Ideally, your physician or PA should know what to check. Guidelines are well-established. For example, colon cancer screening begins around age 45 or 50.
A good general evaluation for men 40 and older includes:
- Heart and lung health
- Endocrine and hormonal function, including testosterone
- Electrolytes and blood counts
- Blood pressure and metabolic health
From there, you and your provider can determine what needs further evaluation.
Q: Men often confuse symptoms—thinking something is prostate-related when it’s not. How can they sort that out?
Dr. Starke: The two most common prostate issues are:
- Prostate enlargement (BPH) — causes urination difficulties
- Prostate cancer — usually does not cause early symptoms
Younger men can also have urinary symptoms that mimic prostate problems. Screening is key because prostate cancer rarely causes symptoms until late stages. We look at both symptomatic issues (like urination changes) and silent risks (like cancer screening).
Q: Early testicular cancer can be painless, which scares people. How should men bring these concerns to their doctor?
Dr. Starke: Communication is everything. It may sound simple, but writing down your questions before the appointment can make sure nothing gets missed. Men often avoid going to the doctor—sometimes it’s a partner who finally pushes them to go—so coming prepared helps.
Breaking the ice can be the hardest part. Talking about personal issues like trouble urinating or sexual symptoms can feel awkward, which is why having a doctor you trust is so important.
How Will You Recognize Men’s Health Awareness Month?
Men’s Health Awareness Month serves as a powerful reminder that proactive care, honest conversations, and early screenings can significantly improve men’s long-term health. As Dr. Starke emphasizes, it’s never too late to address concerns, establish regular medical care, and take charge of overall well-being.