DOES HE KNOW WHAT THE EARLY SIGNS OF TESTICULAR CANCER ARE?
Let’s face it, when it comes to scheduling doctors’ visits, men are notorious for dragging their feet! Some men would never go to the doctor if it weren’t for the women in their lives. Does that sound familiar?
Too embarrassed to ask
When it comes to testicular cancer, men are often too embarrassed to even ask about the symptoms let alone talk about it!
“Men often need to get screened for cancer. Fear often also plays a role in seeking medical advice, which is unfortunate. Routine preventive care can diagnose cancer and other diseases in their early stages. When cancer is found early, there are more options for treatment. That means there are also better chances for a cure,” says Linda Greeff, founder of People Living with Cancer and Cancer Buddies.
Fortunately we women are made of tougher stuff and know that any possible symptoms of cancer should not be ignored!
What are the symptoms of testicular cancer?
The first sign of testicular cancer is often enlargement of the testicle or a small lump or area of hardness on the testicle, which can be either painless or painful. Other symptoms may go unnoticed until the cancer is advanced and has spread to other parts of the body.
Symptoms of testicular cancer may include:
- A lump on a testicle
- Scrotum that seems swollen or bigger than usual
- Dull pain or ache in the testicle
- Dull ache or heaviness in the lower part of the abdomen
- Symptoms are often present in one testicle only
The importance of self-examinations
Just as we exam our breasts for signs of breast cancer, men should preform regular testicular self-examinations.
Regular self-examinations and examinations by doctors can help detect cancer at an early stage, when it is more likely to be successfully treated.
Some doctors recommend that men ages 15 to 55 perform a monthly self-examination to identify any changes. Men who notice a lump, hardness, enlargement, pain, or any other change in one or both of their testicles should visit their doctor immediately.
”Despite a slow increase in the number of new cases, the number of deaths due to testicular cancer have decreased dramatically since the 1960s as a result of treatment improvements,” comments Tyron Hansen, Product Manager for Dulcolax which sponsors Cancer Buddies. “However, this is still devastating news and it is important to know that, if you are suffering from cancer, you are not alone.
Organisations like Cancer Buddies create a support system which is critical for people living with cancer. Their work touches the lives of so many, which is why Dulcolax is so passionate about supporting the initiative,” concludes Hansen.
Should you, a friend or a family member be diagnosed with cancer and would like more information on People Living with Cancer and Cancer Buddies please contact 0800 033 337, visit www.cancerbuddies.org.za or www.plwc.org.za or email info@plwc.org.za
Source: http://www.all4women.co.za/