June is Men’s Health Awareness Month. It is a great time to remind the men in our lives to take care of their health before problems become serious.
Many men wait to see a doctor until something feels wrong. However, some health conditions can start quietly. Because of this, regular checkups and recommended screenings matter.
Medical imaging can also play an important role. It can help doctors look inside the body, find problems early, and guide the next step in care.
At Sol Radiology, we are proud to serve the High Desert and Inland Empire with locally owned, radiologist-led care. Our team is here to make imaging clear, comfortable, and close to home.
Why Men’s Health Awareness Month Matters
Men’s Health Awareness Month is recognized each June. Its goal is simple: help men live longer, healthier lives.
According to the CDC, men in the United States have a lower average life expectancy than women. Many factors can affect this. However, preventive care is one important way men can take action.
Preventive care may include:
- Scheduling a yearly physical
- Checking blood pressure and cholesterol
- Talking about symptoms early
- Knowing your family health history
- Staying up to date on screenings
- Following through on imaging exams when needed
In other words, preventive care is not about expecting bad news. Instead, it is about getting helpful information at the right time.
How Imaging Supports Men’s Health
Medical imaging helps doctors see what is happening inside the body. As a result, it can help explain symptoms, guide treatment, or support certain screenings.
For example, MRI uses a strong magnet and radio waves to create detailed pictures of soft tissues, joints, the spine, and some organs.
CT, also called computed tomography, uses X-rays and computer technology to create detailed images of the body.
Ultrasound uses sound waves to look at organs, soft tissues, and blood flow.
X-ray is often used to check bones, the chest, and certain injuries.
DEXA, also called a bone density scan, measures bone strength and helps check the risk of osteoporosis.
However, not every person needs imaging. Your doctor will decide if an exam is right for you based on your symptoms, age, risk factors, and health history.
Health Topics Men Should Discuss With Their Doctor
Heart Health
Heart health is important at every age. According to the CDC, heart disease is a leading cause of death in the United States.
Because of this, men should talk with their doctor about blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes risk, smoking history, and family history. Also, symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue should not be ignored.
In some cases, imaging may help evaluate the heart, lungs, or blood vessels.
Lung Health
Lung health is especially important for men who smoke or used to smoke. For some people, lung cancer screening may be recommended.
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends yearly low-dose CT screening for adults ages 50 to 80 who have a 20 pack-year smoking history and currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years.
Low-dose CT uses a lower amount of radiation than a regular chest CT. According to RadiologyInfo.org, this exam can find very small lung nodules. As a result, it may help find lung cancer earlier in people who meet screening guidelines.
If you currently smoke or smoked in the past, ask your doctor if lung cancer screening is right for you.
Prostate Health
Prostate health is another key topic for men. The prostate is a small gland below the bladder. As men age, the prostate can become enlarged. In some cases, prostate cancer may also develop.
Screening choices should be made with your doctor. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that men ages 55 to 69 make an individual decision about prostate cancer screening after talking with their provider.
In some cases, a prostate MRI may be ordered. According to RadiologyInfo.org, prostate MRI can help evaluate prostate cancer, enlarged prostate, infection, and other concerns.
Colorectal Health
Colorectal cancer can affect both men and women. However, screening can help find cancer early. It can also find some changes before they become cancer.
The American Cancer Society recommends that people at average risk begin regular colorectal cancer screening at age 45.
Some people may need screening earlier. For example, you may need earlier screening if you have a family history or certain health conditions.
If your doctor orders imaging for abdominal pain or follow-up care, Sol Radiology offers CT, ultrasound, and other exams that may support your care plan.
Bone and Joint Health
Many people think osteoporosis only affects women. However, men can develop osteoporosis too. Osteoporosis means the bones become weaker and more likely to break.
Men may have a higher risk if they are older, smoke, drink heavily, take certain medicines, or have had past fractures.
A DEXA scan can measure bone density. In addition, X-ray or MRI may help evaluate joint pain, back pain, injuries, or arthritis.
When Should Men Ask About Imaging?
You should always follow your doctor’s advice. However, it may be time to ask about imaging if you have symptoms that do not go away.
Talk with your provider if you have:
- Pain that keeps coming back
- A new lump or swelling
- A long-lasting cough
- Shortness of breath
- A history of smoking
- Blood in the urine or stool
- Unexplained weight loss
- A recent injury
- Ongoing back, joint, or stomach pain
- A family history of cancer or heart disease
Again, imaging is not always the first step. However, when it is needed, it can give your care team valuable answers.
Local Imaging Care Close to Home
At Sol Radiology, we know patients want answers they can trust. They also want care that feels personal and easy to access.
As a locally owned and radiologist-led practice, we are proud to serve patients across the High Desert and Inland Empire. We use advanced imaging technology and AI-supported tools when appropriate. Most importantly, we focus on patient-centered care.
In addition, we work closely with referring providers. Clear reports and reliable turnaround times help doctors make informed decisions for their patients.
To learn more, visit our Patients page, explore our Locations, or Contact our team for help.
Take the Next Step During Men’s Health Awareness Month
Men’s Health Awareness Month is a reminder to take action. Schedule the checkup. Ask the question. Talk about symptoms. Also, encourage the men in your life to do the same.
If your provider has ordered an imaging exam, Sol Radiology is here to help.
Visit our Locations page to find an imaging center near you, or Contact us to get started.
This is general information, not medical advice. Always talk with your healthcare provider about your symptoms, health history, and screening needs.
FAQs
What is Men’s Health Awareness Month?
Men’s Health Awareness Month takes place in June. It encourages men to focus on preventive care, screenings, and healthy habits.
What screenings should men ask about?
Men should ask their doctor about blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, colorectal cancer screening, prostate cancer screening, and lung cancer screening if they have a smoking history.
Does every man need imaging?
No. Imaging is only recommended when it is medically appropriate. Your doctor will decide if imaging is right for your symptoms or screening needs.
What imaging exams are common for men’s health?
Common exams may include MRI, CT, ultrasound, X-ray, and DEXA. The right exam depends on your doctor’s order and your health concern.
Can Sol Radiology help if I already have an imaging order?
Yes. If your provider has ordered imaging, Sol Radiology can help you schedule your exam and understand what to expect.
Summary
Men’s Health Awareness Month is a great time to focus on prevention. Regular checkups, open conversations, and recommended screenings can help men stay informed about their health.
When imaging is needed, Sol Radiology is here with local, radiologist-led care for patients across the High Desert and Inland Empire.
