Comprehensive health checks lower mortality in older men

Cardiovascular disease and blood clots are among the leading causes of death in men. However, experts estimate that up to 80 percent of cases can be prevented – for instance, through early detection and timely treatment.

As part of a Danish trial, large groups of men were offered a comprehensive health check, including scans, blood tests and blood pressure measurements. Researchers from the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) and Odense University Hospital (OUH) have now assessed the impact of these checks in men aged 60 to 64, as part of the DANCAVAS II study.

– Among those who accepted the health check, we observed a 17 percent reduction in mortality compared to the control group – the men who were not offered a check, explains Jes Lindholt, professor of vascular surgery at the Department of Clinical Research, SDU and OUH, and one of the study’s lead researchers.

– That’s a greater benefit than any previous screening programme has ever demonstrated.

The study involved more than 31,000 men in Denmark, 6,000 of whom were invited to take part in the health check. Among those who accepted the offer, mortality rates were 17 percent lower seven years after screening.

Screened men are more likely to begin preventive treatment

The study also found that men who were screened were more likely to start preventive medication.

– We know that up to 80 percent of cases of cardiovascular disease and blood clots can be prevented, so we’re pleased to see that the health checks have helped set that process in motion, says Axel Diederichsen, professor of cardiology at the Department of Clinical Research, SDU and OUH.

Preventive treatment typically involves cholesterol-lowering drugs such as statins and blood-thinning medication like aspirin. While statins are generally considered safe and effective, the researchers observed a higher incidence of serious bleeding among men taking aspirin.

– This suggests that aspirin should be prescribed with great caution in this age group – even when there is evidence of coronary artery calcification, explains Axel Diederichsen.

– It’s something doctors should be mindful of when prescribing preventive treatment.

Older men may benefit even more from screening

The researchers point out that an earlier study (DANCAVAS 1) showed even greater benefits in men aged 65 to 69, suggesting that screening may be even more effective in slightly older age groups.

They also emphasise the need for future studies to investigate whether women could benefit from a similar offer.

The findings were recently presented at ESC 2025 – the world’s largest cardiology conference.