Imaging services play an important role in preventive and diagnostic healthcare for all genders, as they can be essential in identifying potential disease onset and assessing health risks.

Here’s a closer look at which imaging tests can particularly help our male patients live a long and healthy life.

Why Are Imaging Tests Important for Men?

In 2019, the Cleveland Clinic released surprising findings acquired from their survey of 1,174 U.S. men: only half of respondents practiced preventative healthcare, with 72% admitting they would rather do household chores than see a doctor. This study proved that there’s a dangerous disconnect between men and preventative healthcare.

Despite the fact that men are more likely to avoid the doctor, they are still at risk of developing certain health conditions that, if left untreated, can even be life-threatening.

But imaging tests can empower men to take charge of their health. They play an important role in both preventative and diagnostic care by identifying the scope of an illness, determining risk factors, and assessing injury trauma in the earliest stages — when treatment can be most successful.

To help men who may be test-resistant, medical experts recommend making appointments a team effort. For example, if one spouse is going in for their yearly checkup or specific image screening, they should encourage and support their partner to do the same. Doctors also recommend bringing up health topics in a gentle manner, to make a potentially sensitive conversation more productive.

Imaging Tests That Benefit Men

Here’s more about how several imaging tests can specifically help men.

MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive procedure that takes three dimensional images of a person’s body, using a magnetic field and computer-generated radio waves. Men may need to undergo an MRI particularly for precise and effective prostate cancer diagnosis. It can also be used to view abnormalities in other organ tissue including the lungs and liver.

CT Scan

Computed tomography (CT/CAT) scans take detailed images of a person’s body using an amalgamation of X-rays and computerized technology. These images are compiled into complete, cross-sectional pictures of soft tissue, bone and blood vessels. Men are most likely to undergo a CT scan to investigate and diagnose potentially cancerous tumors, to determine the scope of heart disease, or to inform planning in advance of surgery.

X-Ray

An x-ray is a simple, painless, and fast procedure that takes images to help physicians diagnose and treat a variety of medical conditions. Though the resulting images are not as detailed as those from CT or MRI scans, they’re particularly effective for capturing images of bones. Elderly men may need to get an x-ray to diagnose bone breakage, and the potential onset of osteoporosis.

Mammography is a specific, high-tech form of x-ray that may also be necessary for men living with breast cancer, though it is more frequently prescribed for women.

Bone Density Test

Bone density tests are specialized forms of x-ray that measure bone minerals and calcium within your bones. This is the primary method for detecting and treating osteoporosis, a common condition in older men.

Ultrasound

Otherwise known as a sonography or ultrasonography, ultrasounds are stereotypically associated with pregnancy. But ultrasounds can be used for a variety of purposes. Testicular ultrasounds are specifically helpful in capturing images to help identify tumors or abnormalities that could indicate symptoms of testicular cancer.

Fluoroscopy

Fluoroscopy is a type of x-ray that captures a video of movements within a person’s body. Primarily this test is used to diagnose heart and intestinal conditions or map surgical procedures, including catheter placement.

Our professional radiologists value men’s health and want to help you fulfill all your medical needs. To request your next imaging appointment or consultation, visit our website or give us a call at (919) 877-5400.