When you're a young man, it's easy to feel indestructible. But the reality is that young men need to be alert for testicular cancer. Fortunately, this cancer is rare. Yet it is one of the most common cancers among men aged 15-35. The good news is that a simple, three-minute self-examination every month can uncover signs of trouble. And when detected early, testicular cancer is one of the most easily cured. When you examine yourself monthly, you're also taking charge of your body - laying the foundation for the Wellness Way of life.

Testicular Anatomy

The testicles are the primary male sex organs. They produce and store sperm, the cells that fertilize the female's egg during reproduction. The testicles also secrete testosterone, the cause of such male traits as facial hair and lower voice. The testicles are the most sensitive part of the male anatomy and are located below the penis in a sac of skin called the scrotum.

Normal The testicles are not identical. One side is often lower than the other side.	Varicocele It?s not unusual to have a thick vein, called a varicocele, on the outside of a testicle. No treatment is necessary.
Undescended Testicles Infants with undescended testicles run higher risk of testicular cancer as adults.	Cancer Testicular cancer affects more than 6,000 men a year. Usually only one testicle is involved.

RISK FACTORS

• Undescended testicles in infants and young children
• An identical twin with testicular cancer or family history of testicular cancer
• Atrophy of testicles due to mumps or viral infection

SYMPTOMS

Testicular cancer may be symptomless in early stages. When symptoms do occur, they include:

• Lump on the testicle
• change in the consistency of the testicle
• enlargement of the testicle
• enlargement of the male breasts and nipples
• Aching in the lower abdomen or scrotum
• heavy sensation in the testicle or groin

Because testicular cancer may produce no symptoms in early stages, it is important to examine your testicles once a month. Start when you are 15. It's best to check yourself in the shower or warm bath. The heat causes the scrotal skin to relax, making your exam easier.

1. The Testicles The total exam takes only three minutes. Start by holding your scrotum in the palm of your hands. Then feel one testicle. Apply a small amount of pressure. Slowly roll it between your fingers. Try to find hard, painless lumps.
2. The Epididymis Now examine you epididymis. This comma-shaped cord is found behind your testicles. It's job is to store and transport sperm. Tender when touched, it is the location of most non-cancerous problems.
3. The Vas Deferens Continue by examining the vas deferens, the sperm-carrying tube that runs up from your epididymis. Normally, the vas deferens feels like a firm, movable, smooth tube. Now repeat the exam on the other side.

Professional Screening

Along with you own TSE, ask your doctor to examine your testicles during routine check-ups. Your doctor also can ease your worries about loss of sexuality of masculinity if you have testicular cancer.

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General Urology

• Hematuria
• Hematuria-2
• Testicular Self-Examination