|
Testicular
Cancer
Check -
Men
between
the ages
of 15
and 35
can
increase
their
chances
of
finding
testicular
cancer
early by
performing
monthly
testicular
self-examination
(TSE).
Ideally,
TSE
should
be
performed
after a
warm
bath or
shower.
The heat
causes
the
scrotal
skin to
relax,
making
it
easier
to feel
anything
unusual
on the
testicle.
•
Examine
each
testicle
gently
with
both
hands.
The
index
and
middle
fingers
should
be
placed
underneath
the
testicle
with the
thumbs
placed
on top.
Roll the
testicle
gently
between
the
thumbs
and
fingers.
One
testicle
may be
slightly
larger
than the
other.
This is
normal.
• The
epididymis
is a
cord-like
structure
on the
top and
back of
the
testicles
that
stores
and
transports
sperm.
Do not
confuse
the
epididymis
with an
abnormal
lump.
• Feel
for any
abnormal
lumps -
about
the size
of a pea
- on the
front or
side of
the
testicle.
These
lumps
are
usually
painless.
If you
do find
a lump,
contact
your
doctor
right
away.
The lump
may be
due to
an
infection,
and a
doctor
can
decide
the
proper
treatment.
If the
lump is
not an
infection,
it is
likely
to be
cancer.
Remember
that
testicular
cancer
is
highly
curable,
especially
when
detected
and
treated
early.
While
routine
TSE is
important,
it
cannot
substitute
for a
doctor's
examination.
Your
doctor
should
examine
your
testicles
when you
have a
physical
examination.
You can
also ask
your
doctor
to check
the way
you do
TSE.
It's
important
not to
let fear
or
embarrassment
keep you
from not
checking
yourself
on a
regular
basis,
or
contacting
the
doctor
if you
notice
anything
unusual.
Remember,
if
caught
early
chances
of
survival
are
great.
It's
your
life
your
dealing
with,
don't
let
embarrassment
or
shyness
stop you
checking.
Make
sure
that you
make
regular
checks.
©
Copyright
2004 |
