Give
Yourself a Self-Exam
Testicular cancer
primarily strikes men between the ages of 20 and 34, with
Caucasian men being the most vulnerable. Fortunately
though, this cancer can be detected early through self-exams,
and when treated promptly, has a 93% cure rate. Here's
how to give yourself a testicular self-exam:
The best
time to do this is during or after a warm shower, when your
scrotal sac is relaxed. Check one testicle at a
time. Put your index and middle fingers of both hands
under the testicle, and rest your thumbs on top. Gently
roll the testicle between the thumbs and fingers and feel for
any small lumps. Also feel for swelling or hardening of
the entire testicle.
Though it's common for one testicle to be larger than
the other, take note if one seems larger than normal.
Other signs to watch out for: a dull ache in the lower abdomen
or groin, pain or discomfort in the testicle or scrotum, or
fluid in the scrotum. If any of these symptoms last as
long as 2 weeks, call your doctor.
If you need any more
information, you can call the National Cancer Institute at
1-800-422-6237 or call the American Cancer Society at
1-800-227-2345.
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