Notes

All males who have reached puberty should do routine testicular about once per month. Males should also have an self-examinations annual checkup by a doctor. Talk with a doctor or other healthcare provider to find out how to perform the exam correctly Here is a brief summary of how to perform a testicular self-exam 1 Perform the self-exam during or after a warm bath or shower, when the skin of the scrotum is relaxed 2. Stand in front of a mirror and hold the penis out of the way 3. Examine each testide separately Hold each testide between the thumbs and fingers with both hands, and roll each testicle gently between the fingers 4. Look and feel for any lumps or any change in the size, shape, or consistency of the testide 5. Contact your doctor if you detect any troublesome signs Males should be aware of the signs for testicular cancer even if it does not run in their family However, do not confuse lumps with blood vessels, supporting tissues, and tubes that carry sperm. Look for unusual lumps, swelling or a feeling of heaviness, pain, and discom fort in your scrotum or abdomen. If you notice any of these signs or have any doubts, tell your parents and see a doctor right away Early Detection of Prostate Cancer Prostate cancer occurs pri marily in older males. When men become older testosterone can cause the prostate gland to enlarge. The gland can enlarge in either a cancer fashion. Prostate cancer can be found early dur ous or a noncancerous ing a physical examin ation or blood test given by a doctor. Treatment is more effective when prostate cancer is detected early Males shouldn't wait until it's too late. Delaying treatment can be deadly