While ultrasounds are often associated with women's health, they're equally crucial for men's wellness. In Lagos' fast-paced environment, where men often neglect preventive care, ultrasound scans provide a quick, painless, and radiation-free way to detect potential health issues early. Here's your guide to essential male-focused ultrasound exams available across Lagos clinics.
🩺 Top 5 Ultrasound Scans for Lagos Men
1. Prostate Ultrasound
- Why Needed:
✔ Evaluates prostate enlargement (BPH) - affects 50% of men over 50
✔ Detects tumors, cysts, or abscesses
✔ Guides precise prostate biopsies - Note: Many men mistake urinary symptoms for "normal aging" - early scanning prevents complications
2. Scrotal/Testicular Ultrasound
- Why Needed:
✔ Checks lumps (testicular cancer is most common in men 20-35)
✔ Diagnoses varicoceles (leading cause of male infertility)
✔ Identifies torsion (medical emergency needing surgery within 6 hours) - Lagos Reality: Young athletes and manual laborers are high-risk groups
3. Abdominal Aorta Ultrasound
- Why Needed:
✔ Screens for aneurysms (silent killers in smokers/hypertensive patients)
✔ Checks for plaque buildup in arteries - Critical For: Men over 60 with history of smoking or high blood pressure
4. Musculoskeletal Ultrasound
- Why Needed:
✔ Diagnoses sports injuries (common in Lagos footballers and gym enthusiasts)
✔ Evaluates rotator cuff tears, hernias, or muscle tears
✔ Guides joint injections for arthritis
5. Thyroid/Neck Ultrasound
- Why Needed:
✔ Checks for goiters or nodules
✔ Evaluates swallowing difficulties - At Risk: Men with family history of thyroid disorders
⚠️ Symptoms That Demand Immediate Scanning
🚨 Sudden testicular pain (possible torsion - needs surgery within hours)
🚨 Pulsating abdominal mass (aortic rupture risk)
🚨 Blood in urine/semen
🚨 Progressive difficulty urinating
💡 Why Lagos Men Avoid Scans - And Why They Shouldn't
Barriers:
- "Strong man" mentality ignoring symptoms
- Embarrassment about intimate exams
- Assumption that scans are only for women
📢 Take Charge of Your Health Today!
Lagos men should:
1️⃣ Get annual prostate checks after 40
2️⃣ Scan any testicular abnormalities immediately
3️⃣ Consider preventive aorta screening if high-risk
4️⃣ Don't ignore persistent pain or urinary changes