Testicular Cancer Awareness for Young Men
The Penrith Panthers have teamed up with Andrology Australia and other organisations to promote testicular cancer awareness and encourage self-examination among young men. They are hoping with their campaign to motivate young men to take care of their reproductive health at an early age.
Any kind of cancer is rare in young people. And even testicular cancer is rare in comparison to other cancers, with 675 cases across Australia last year, but it is the second most common form of cancer amongst men aged 18 to 39 years. The good news is that it is almost always curable, if detected and treated early enough.
Cancer occurs when cells develop abnormally and grow in an out of control manner. The way to detect testicular cancer is to perform a monthly self-examination to feel for any lumps or bumps because they can be the first sign. It is best to do this self-examination in the shower or right afterwards, as everything is relaxed which makes it easier to do.
What to do: Examine one testicle at a time. Using both hands, gently roll the testicle with only a slight pressure between your fingers. Place your thumbs over the top of your testicle and with the index and middle fingers of each hand behind the testicle roll it between your fingers. You will be able to feel the sperm carrying tube (epididymis), which normally feels soft, rope-like, and sensitive to pressure. You will also feel that one testicle is slightly larger than the other and this is also normal.
If you find any lumps, swelling, pain or changes of any kind you should consult your doctor even though they may turn out to be harmless. It is always best to have them checked; as the earlier any cancer is found and treated the more likely you will be cured. The treatment does not normally affect erectile function, sexuality or masculinity.
The causes of testicular cancer remain unclear, but the incidence continues to rise. Therefore it is important for young men to make self-examination a regular part of their wellness plan. For more information on testicular cancer go to: www.andrologyaustralia.org