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HOW TO GIVE YOURSELF A TESTICULAR SELF-EXAM
Testicular
cancer primarily strikes men between the ages of 20 and 34, with
Caucasian men being the most vulnerable. Fortunately though,
this cancer can be detected early through self-exams, and when
treated promptly, has a 93% cure rate. Here's how to give
yourself a testicular self-exam:
The best time to do this is during or after a warm shower, when
your scrotal sac is relaxed. Check one testicle at a time.
Put your index and middle fingers of both hands under the testicle,
and rest your thumbs on top. Gently roll the testicle between
the thumbs and fingers and feel for any small lumps. Also
feel for swelling or hardening of the entire testicle.
Though it's common for
one testicle to be larger than the other, take note if one seems
larger than normal. Other signs to watch out for: a dull
ache in the lower abdomen or groin, pain or discomfort in the
testicle or scrotum, or fluid in the scrotum. If any of
these symptoms last as long as 2 weeks, call your doctor.
If you need any more information, you can call the National Cancer
Institute at 1-800-422-6237 or call the American Cancer Society
at 1-800-227-2345. |