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How to proactively check for testicular cancer

by Denise Alvarado-Wirtz, Staff Writer

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The purpose of this article is to discuss a sensitive issue to many men: testicular cancer. This subject has been overlooked due to recent increased focus on prostate cancer. A recent study at the University of Liverpool showed that two-thirds of prostate cancer patients do not need treatment. However with testicular cancer, there are other concerns, such as the possibility of having a heart attack at a younger age. There is no way to prevent testicular cancer. The good news, though, is that it can be detected early.

Symptoms of testicular cancer include an enlarged testicle, hydrocele, and pain in lower abdomen or scrotum. Bear in mind, testicles are not symmetric. One testicle is larger than the other, and this is normal. If, however, there is a noticable enlargement, examination by a urologist is recommended. A hydrocele is a fluid-filled sac inside the scrotum. Frequently benign and painless, these usually go away on their own. A combination of symptoms is cause to make an appointment with a urologist.

Just as women should perform regular breast exams, men should perform regular testicle exams. Fortunately, for many (if not most) men, the idea of manual examination is not an alien notion. In fact, self examinations can be-well-pleasant. Further, for couples, there is the option of mutual examinations - and who knows where that could lead?

So how, exactly, is a testicular examination performed? First and foremost, relax. Second, make sure that you are in a place that is comfortably warm, like in the shower or laying in bed. As any man knows, cold air makes certain body parts shrivel up like a stack of dimes, and other parts shrink upwards and inwards as though seeking shelter somewhere up in the stomach. With your non-dominant hand, cup your testicles. With your other hand, use your fingertips to feel each testicle - one at a time. Feel from the back top downward, working your way around to the front. Be sure to feel the space in between the testicles, too. You are feeling for anything out of the ordinary - and with regular examinations, any variation from the norm will be almost instantly obvious, whether the examination is performed individually or with a partner.

In summary, testicular cancer is a serious condition that shows few symptoms at the outset. The best way to detect it is by being proactive, either through routine self-examinations or having your partner perform routine examinations. As with any matter related to sexual health, be responsible. Practice makes permanent.

Sources:

https://www.google.com/health/ref/Hydrocele

http://testicularcancersymptoms.org/

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/09/090923102335.htm

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Comments & Questions
Dulce Corazon  Factoidz Writer - 9 Factoids | + 75 votes

Very useful article. A must read for all men.
posted 6 months ago
Janet Hunt  Staff Writer - 39 Factoids | + 220 votes

Great article and important information!
posted 6 months ago
Paul Torri  Factoidz Writer - 28 Factoids | + 86 votes

Great and lighthearted yet informative article. At 43 I'm becoming more aware of these ailments that I have to get tested for. Fotunately I assume thw Al Bundy position quite regularly and haven't noticed any problems. The ones I'm worried about and reluctant to have done are the prostate and colonoscopy. Any Reccommendations?
posted 6 months ago
Denise Alvarado-Wirtz  Staff Writer - 44 Factoids | + 225 votes

Thanks Paul! *grinning at Al Bundy position* - whatever works, seriously. More important than the perspective is the action. *nod* As for prostate and colonoscopies, yes, I do make regular suggestions on these matters, too (which I will happily complete a write-up on each) - but the quick answers for each here: With prostate, the deal is - "use it or lose it" - and I will admit that being this straight up with my dad was VERY awkward, but the truth of the matter is that for both men and women, masturbation and regular (healthy) sexual activity is essential. This is arguably the case more with men than with women, but it's not a matter of "stud-mode" - like any other muscle or organ that does not get regularly exercised, the prostate does atrophy. That's the short version of that one. For proper colon health, there are certain things that can be done from home (proper diet, exercise, etc) - but after a certain age (I think it's 50, but I will verify that), a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy is strongly recommended - what they're looking for are growths like polyps and other abnormalities. One other small thing I'd suggest, while you're looking at what to examine - check your breasts, too. I know you're a man, and a lot of men seem to think that breast cancer is a "woman's ailment" - but it also impacts men in a big way. Especially if there is breast cancer in the family history. I make this comment with thanks to you, Paul...and to everyone in here...for taking the time to read my article. I'm honored, sincerely. I will do my best to keep writing quality work. :)
posted 6 months ago
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