The idea for this topic jumped out at me last week when I received a email blast from my electric razor company informing me that April was testicular cancer awareness month. Synchronistically we had our friends Andy and Eileen visiting from Long Island. Andy happens to be a testicular cancer survivor, who was diagnosed in his late 20s, he's now in his early 60s. I then reached out to my friend Bob in California, who is also a testicular cancer survivor. He was diagnosed later in life at the age of 45, which is rare. Bob stated, “We as men need to start having these conversations.” I know you have not been raised or encouraged to talk about self-care or your health, because of this men wait until it’s too late to seek medical help.
Some things I learned about testicular cancer:
The Average age of men with testicular cancer 15 to 35.
There's a 95% cure rate if testicular cancer is detected early.
The self exam for men is very important. The best place to perform a self exam is when taking a hot shower.
That self exam should be done once a month.
Look for any changes in the testicle shape, size, texture, and irregularities.
In general there's not going to be any pain of the testicles, but you can get pain in other areas like the low back and abdominal region if it’s metastasized.
Soreness of the breasts can be a symptom of testicular cancer.
The biggest risk factor of testicular cancer is an undescending testicle.
Testicular cancer is a serious condition, but it is highly treatable when caught early. If you notice any changes or abnormalities in your testicles, don't hesitate to see a doctor. Regular self-examination and awareness of the symptoms can help detect testicular cancer early and increase the chances of successful treatment. By taking care of your health and staying informed, you can reduce your risk of testicular cancer and improve your overall well-being. Remember, your health is your most valuable asset, so don't neglect it.