This is an examination you do yourself to look for any evidence of testicular cancer.

You need this examination to look for testicular cancer. Almost 8000 new cases of testicular cases arise each year in the United States. Almost 400 men are die every year of testicular cancer in the United States. Most testicular cancer occurs between the ages of 20 and 39. It is the most common cancer between the ages of 15 and 34. With early detection, the cure rate is over 90%. Some of the symptoms of testicular cancer are testicular swelling, firmness, pain, or painless lump. There can also be pain or heaviness in the scrotum, groin, or lower abdomen, or fluid in the scrotum. Less commonly there can be breast swelling or pain. There is some controversy about the value of monthly self-examination in terms of impact on outcome.

This examination is usually done during or after a shower while standing up. There are many educational materials available to guide you through this, such as The Testicular Cancer Resource Center at tcrc.acor.org/tcexam.html. Simply stated, you roll one testicle between your thumb and fingers of both hands. Then, do this the other testicle. Also, look and observe for changes in front of a mirror.

Report any changes or abnormalities, including inability to feel one or both testicles, to your doctor right away. Testicular cancer may be found as a lump on the testicle, but any swelling or changes or pain should also be reported to your doctor. Sudden severe pain in the testicle is a medical emergency: consult your doctor immediately. Becoming familiar with normal anatomy like the epididymus, the cord-like structure which carries sperm from the testes, is helpful.

• Undescended testicle or history of congenital malformations of the testes, penis, or kidneys
• Previous testicular cancer
• Family history of testicular cancer