Objective To analyze the prevalence of anxiety and depression symptoms in male elderly on physical examination, and investigate its main influencing factors in order to provide the basis for early prevention and control. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 1132 male elderly who took routine physical examination in our hospital from March to July 2015. They were at an age of (75.2±9.5) years, and divided into 60-69 (n=364), 70-79 (n=363) and ≥80 years old groups (n=405). Hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS) was used to assess their prevalence of anxiety and depression symptoms. ResultsThe HADS of the subjects were relatively low, with a positive rate of 2.5% for anxiety and 4.3% for depression. But the positive rates were 2.5% and 6.4% respectively in ≥80 years old men. Special dietary preferences and sleep disorders were risk factors for anxiety and depression. The ORs of special dietary preferences were 2.10 (95%CI:1.03-4.26, P=0.041) for anxiety and 1.84 (95%CI:1.07-3.18, P=0.028) for depression. The ORs of sleep disorder were 1.81 (95%CI:1.10-2.97, P=0.002) and 2.77 (95%CI:1.47-5.23, P=0.020) respectively. Alcohol drinking was a protective factor for depression, with an OR of 0.47 (95%CI:0.27-0.84, P=0.010). That is, compared to the current non-drinkers (including those with previous alcohol consumption and those who never drinked), the risk of depression was decreased by 53% for current drinkers. Conclusion The anxiety and depression symptoms are relatively low among the male elderly on physical examination. Special dietary preferences, current alcohol drinking and sleep disorder are influencing factors. Doctors should pay attention to the anxiety and depression symptoms in the elderly, and carry out early targeted interventions to reduce the serious psychological problems.