Let’s be honest – most guys aren’t great about going to the doctor. But staying on top of your health isn’t about being weak, it’s about being smart. Skipping out on regular checkups and ignoring symptoms can lead to serious problems down the road. Grimes Family Medicine provider Dr. Brad Willenbring shares why every man should make regular checkups a non-negotiable part of life.
Get your annual physical.
Your annual exam is like a comprehensive tune-up for your body. During this visit, your provider checks vital numbers like blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, weight, and more – all of which can reveal early warning signs of serious health issues. You’ll also review your personal and family health history, making it easier to stay ahead of problems before they get out of hand.
“A simple blood pressure check or cholesterol panel can uncover problems you didn’t even know existed,” says Dr. Willenbring. “These are quick, routine screenings that can literally save your life.”
Heart disease, for example, is the leading cause of death for men in the U.S., and half of those who die suddenly never had symptoms. Regular checkups can catch risk factors early, often before you feel any different.
Protect your prostate, colon, and sexual health.
Other than skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer for men in America. One in 41 men will die from prostate cancer. Topics like prostate health, colon cancer screenings, and erectile dysfunction (ED) can feel awkward to bring up, but they’re far too important to ignore.
“We want men to feel comfortable talking about anything,” says Dr. Willenbring. “No topic is off-limits; your health is too important.”
Establishing a relationship with a trusted primary care provider means you have a safe, judgement-free place to discuss these concerns. Your doctor can walk you through the latest screening recommendations, evaluate symptoms, and connect you with specialists if needed.
Don't ignore depression.
Mental health matters, and it affects more men than most realize. Depression, anxiety, and chronic stress can take a serious toll on your health, relationships, and overall quality of life. Yet, men often suffer in silence, believing they need to tough it out alone.
“It’s okay not to be okay,” reminds Dr. Willenbring. “Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness, it’s a smart courageous move for your health.”
Your primary care provider is an important resource for mental health support. They can screen for signs of depression, offer coping strategies, and connect you with counselors or other mental health professionals if needed.
Stay ahead of aches and pains.
As you get older, it’s natural to feel a few more aches and pains, especially if you’re active. But ongoing discomfort, limited mobility, or swelling might be signs of something more serious, like arthritis or an injury that needs attention. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a dad chasing kids around the yard, your provider can help manage pain, prevent further injury, and stay active.
Keep your heart in the game.
Your heart keeps everything else running, and it deserves regular maintenance, too. Heart disease remains the number one cause of death for men in the U.S. – and often strikes without warning. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity are common risk factors that typically show no obvious symptoms until serious damage has occurred.
“Even if you feel fine, you need to know your numbers,” says Dr. Willenbring. “It’s about protecting your future and being there for the people who count on you.”
Nearly 52% of men over 20 have hypertension, and 41% are considered obese, both of which increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other complications. Through routine checkups, your doctor can track your heart health and make recommend lifestyle changes.
Take charge of your health today.
Taking care of your health isn’t something to put off or be ashamed of. The stats are real, and they affect men of all ages and lifestyles. A quick visit to your primary care provider can give you the peace of mind you needed – or catch something before it becomes a problem.
Schedule your appointment today by scheduling online or by calling 515.875.9000.
BradWillenbring , DO
Dr. Brad Willenbring is a board-certified physician that joined The Iowa Clinic Family Medicine department in 2024. With more than a decade of experience, Dr. Willenbring enjoys caring for a diverse panel of patients, from newborn to geriatric. The ability to provide care for entire families and develop meaningful relationships is something Dr. Willenbring finds most rewarding about his practice.
After completing his undergraduate degree at the University of Iowa, Dr. Willenbring was sought out and selected for the US Army Health Professions Scholarship Program. After beginning medical school at Des Moines University, he was commissioned as a uniformed officer. He then made his way to Washington state, where he completed a rotating internship and earned an international diploma in mountain medicine. Dr. Willenbring then spent four years on active duty with the Army in Alaska, two years embedded with the infantry, and two years in aviation medicine. Afterwards, Dr. Willenbring finished residency through a Michigan State University affiliate outside of Detroit before returning to Iowa.
An Iowa native, Dr. Willenbring looks forward to providing exceptional care to the people of central Iowa. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his wife and children, paddleboarding, being outdoors, and reminiscing with 90s music.