A YouTube video describing how to perform a self-check for testicular cancer. Each man needs to check his testicles periodically to feel if there is a change in the shape and contour of each testicle. It is not uncommon for one ball to be larger than the other. But, a firm lump (mass) in one of the testicles is not normal. If a man feels a lump that was not there before or a lump has gotten larger, then a doctor visit is a must.
Testicular cancer is the most common form of cancer in men between the ages of 15 and 35. It can occur in older men, and rarely, in younger boys. White men are more likely than African-American and Asian-American men to develop this type of cancer. It is one of the most treatable and curable cancers.
YouTube: Embarrassing Illnesses - Testicular cancer
There may be no symptoms. Symptoms that may occur can include:
- Discomfort or pain in the testicle, or a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
- Dull ache in the back or lower abdomen
- Enlargement of a testicle or a change in the way it feels
- Excess development of breast tissue (gynecomastia), however, this can occur normally in adolescent boys who do not have testicular cancer
- Lump or swelling in either testicle