Testicular Cancer
'Almost 600 young Australian men are diagnosed with testicular cancer each year. It is the second most common malignancy in men aged 18-35 years, behind melanoma, and its incidence has more than doubled over the past 30 years. Fortunately, this disease is one of the major successes of modern oncology, and almost all of these men can now expect to be cured. With the advances in the management of the disease over the past 25 years, most men with metastatic testicular cancer are now curable with combination chemotherapy.' Dr Michael J Boyer
How to Examine yourself
Performing a monthly testicular examination is an effective way of detecting testicular cancer at an early stage. The advantage of this is that recovery is much more likely and the treatment less aggressive. You should perform a testicular examination each month from about the age of 15 onwards. A good time to do this is after a warm shower or bath.
The recommended steps are:
- Stand in front of the mirror and look for any swelling in the scrotal skin. Don't worry if one testicle appears larger than the other, that's normal.
- Examine each testicle in turn with both hands, placing your index and middle fingers underneath and your thumbs on top. Roll the testicle gently. It should feel smooth and you shouldn't experience any pain. Feel for any lumps or swellings.
- Towards the top and back of each testicle you should be able to feel a small elevation. This is the epididymis, which is a cordlike structure which carries and stores sperm. By becoming familiar with this structure you won't confuse it with a suspicious lump.
In time you will know the feel of your testicles - if you find any lumps or changes then see your GP right away.
Where to go for help?
Your local doctor.
Free Sexual Health Clinics in Tweed Heads , Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour, Kempsey, and Lismore.
Useful websites on this subject
How do I know if I have testicular cancer?
Andrology Australia is a most informative website about many aspects of men's health.
Queensland Health information about Testicular Cancer