Testicular cancer: The importance of self-exam
A rare but important cancer for young men
Testicular cancer is rare, but it is the most common type of cancer in young men aged 15 to 35. The good news is that when detected early, it has one of the highest cure rates of all cancers.
The best tool for early detection is in your hands: the self-exam.
How to do a testicular self-exam
It is recommended to do this simple exam once a month. The best way to understand the technique is to see it.
You can watch this YouTube video by Dr Claudia. It explains, in under 2 minutes, how to perform the exam simply and effectively.
The goal is to know what is "normal" for you, so you can quickly detect any changes.
When to see a doctor
A lot of times, this cancer doesn't cause any symptoms apart from the lump.
Consult a doctor without delay if you notice any of the following signs persisting:
- A lump or swelling on a testicle (with or without pain).
- A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum.
- A dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin.
- A change in the size or firmness of a testicle.
It is important to know that many of these symptoms can be caused by non-cancerous conditions. However, only a medical examination can provide a diagnosis. Never hesitate to consult if you have any doubts.
Trusted resources
- Testicular Cancer Canada : THE Canadian reference for support and information on testicular cancer.
- Canadian Cancer Society : Offers detailed and reliable medical information on the disease.
