Get some for yourself!

laf_tc_brochure_final.pdf

or

http://www.laf.org/educat...ntion.html

jackflash said:

cant see jack :confusE:

And now?

sorry 'bout that... $5 was my co-pay; my doctor is a female and the link was to the Lance Armstrong Foundation

Don't be shy; be safe and check your sac

Testicular Cancer

While rare, testicular cancer strikes primarily young, white men between the ages of 15 and 35. It is the most common form of cancer among American white males between 20 and 34 and the second most common malignancy for American white males between 15 and 19. This year alone, the American Cancer Society estimates that 7,000 to 8,000 new cases of testicular cancer will be diagnosed in the United States. For men living in the US, incidence rates for testicular cancer have doubled over the last two decades. Overall, testicular tumors have a 96% malignancy rate, leading to the deaths of approximately 400 American men each year. Fortunately, from 1983 to 1990, the overall survival rate for men with testicular cancer increased to 94%. Unfortunately, half of all men diagnosed with this form of cancer do not seek medical attention until after the cancer has spread to other areas of the body, dramatically complicating treatment options and the chances for survival.

As noted above, young, white males are at the highest risk for contracting testicular cancer; however, any male can develop it, regardless of race or age. Men who have an undescended or partially descended testicle have a much higher risk of developing testicular cancer, even if surgery was performed to remove the testicle or bring it down into the scrotum. Also, having a father or brother with testicular cancer increases your risk for developing the disease. Finally, having small testicles or testicles that are not shaped correctly may increase your chances for this form of cancer.

The most common symptom associated with testicular cancer is a hard, painless lump or nodule on the testicle. Other symptoms include an enlargement of the testicle, a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum, a dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin area, a sudden collection of fluid in the scrotum, pain or discomfort in the testicle or scrotum, and/or blood in the urine. Usually, a person with testicular cancer will not feel sick or have any pain in the testicle or scrotum. In fact, there may not be any warning signs present. But remember, only a doctor can make a positive diagnosis of cancer.

The best time to perform the Testicular Self Exam is during or immediately after a warm shower or bath. The warm water relaxes the skin on the scrotum, making it easier to perform the TSE. Also, your fingers will more easily glide over soapy skin, making it easier to concentrate on the texture underneath and increasing the likelihood that you will feel any lumps or nodules on your testicles.

If you find a lump on your testicle, see a doctor immediately, preferably a urologist. The abnormality may not be cancer, but if it is and if it is found early, the chances are very good that it can be treated. Currently, testicular cancer has a 94% survival rate, but only if the cancer is caught early. If you have any doubt, do not dismiss it or hope it will go away. Many men let embarrassment or fear prevent them from seeking medical attention. Issues of masculinity or sexuality often present significant barriers for men faced with needing medical attention. However, testicular tumors are some of the fastest growing of all human cancers. The longer you wait to seek help, the worse your situation may be when you finally do see a doctor. There is nothing to be embarrassed about when it comes to cancer. See your doctor as soon as possible.

Lance Armstrong Foundation
P . O . Bo x 161150
Austin, TX 78716-1150
www.laf.org