To continue our “below the belt” discussion, let’s chat
about one more health risk for men: testicular cancer.
Men of any age can develop testicular cancer; however, about half of all
cases of testicular cancer are in men between the ages of 20 and 34, according to the
American Cancer Society (ACS). However, testicular cancer can be treated and usually cured, especially
when it’s found early – when it’s small and hasn’t spread.
Early symptoms of testicular cancer include:
- Painless lump on or in a testicle – this is the most common symptom.
Another common symptom is the testicle might be swollen or larger than normal.
- Low back pain, or a heavy or aching feeling in the lower belly or scrotum.
- Rarely, testicular cancers may cause men’s breasts to become sore or grow.
- For younger boys, it can cause signs of early puberty, including a deepening
of the voice and facial and body hair at an early age.
If you are experiencing these symptoms, schedule an appointment with your
doctor right away.
While most men experience one or more of these symptoms of testicular cancer,
some men may not experience symptoms until after they have reached a more
advanced stage of the disease. Most doctors recommend regular testicular
self-exams for all men, along with schedule annual exams.
Click here for instructions on testicular exams from the ACS.
Attila T. Barabas, MD, with
Campbell County Medical Group Urology can make sure you’re staying healthy below the belt. Schedule an
exam today for you or a loved one at 307.688.3636.
For those of you who are fans of Deadpool, check out this PSA:
Gentlemen, Touch Yourself Tonight. It may just save some lives, while giving you a good laugh.
Warning:
This video features the sarcastic, and somewhat vulgar, Marvel superhero
Deadpool instructing men how they can check their private parts for testicular
cancer. It may not be suitable for all audiences.