Self- examination saves lives

WHILE testicular cancer is uncommon among young teenage boys, it is the most common type of cancer diagnosis in males between the ages of 15 and 35.

Testicular cancer is almost always curable if it is detected and treated in its early stages.

Men should perform a testicular self- examination ( TSE) every month to familiarise themselves with the normal shape and size of their testicles.

The TSE is an easy and simple way for men to identify anomalies in the form of lumps or bumps on the surface of their testicles. These irregularities may be the initial signs of testicular cancer.

How to examine yourself

The ideal time to examine your testicles is after a warm bath as heat relaxes the scrotum, allowing you to spot and feel abnormalities more effectively. Here are the simple steps:

Stand in front of a mirror and search for any swelling on the scrotal skin.

Examine each testicle individually, using both hands carefully. Place your index and middle fingers under the testicle with the thumbs placed on top of it, forming a pincer- like gesture.

Roll the testicle gently between the thumbs and fingers.

You should not at any point feel pain during a TSE. Also, do not be shocked to find that one testicle is a

Males should start testes self- examinations from the age of 15. When detected early, testicular cancer is highly curable.

little larger than the other; this is completely normal.

Things to note

You will firstly find the epididymis, a soft tube- shaped structure at the top and bottom of the testicle ( the epididymis stores sperm and is rather sensitive).

Once you are acquainted with this structure, it can be eliminated as a suspicious lump.

Oftentimes, cancerous lumps are found on the sides of the testicle but can sometimes appear on the front.

Lumps on or attached to the epididymis are not cancerous.

As each testicle is examined, concentrate on feeling for lumps and note that they may be as tiny as a grain of rice.

If you find small hard lumps or swelling, notice changes in the colour or size of a testicle, or

experience any pain or discomfort in your groin, immediately inform a urologist.

However, be mindful that the following symptoms are not usually signs of testicular cancer: Pimples Isolated lumps that are not attached to anything Pain or a burning sensation during urination Presence of blood in the urine or semen

Embarrassment should never be an excuse to evade a doctor’s examination.

Always remember that if you are in doubt, have yourself checked, even if it is only for peace of mind.

Ultimately, only a physician can make a definitive positive or negative diagnosis.

When it comes to your health and well- being, never compromise.