How to Prevent Testicular Cancer
Testicular cancer is a fairly uncommon disease. There are no proven means of preventing this cancer from occurring, but you can increase the likelihood of discovering it in its early and most treatable stages in several ways.
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Instructions
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Know that many men who are diagnosed with testicular cancer possess certain risk factors that are present at birth, including race (this disease primarily affects white men), a family history of the disease or a condition called cryptorchidism.
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Recognize that cryptorchidism, or the condition of possessing an undescended testicle, may be corrected in early childhood. Many doctors believe that surgery to bring the undescended testicle down into the scrotum performed before the onset of puberty may help to reduce the likelihood of the child developing testicular cancer later in life. Help prevent testicular cancer in your child by discussing surgical options for cryptorchidism with your doctor.
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Ask about your family medical history. You may be at an increased risk of developing this cancer if your father or other male relatives have also suffered from it.
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Help yourself and your doctor detect this cancer in its early stages by performing regular testicular self-examinations, or TSEs. Manually check your testicles for hard lumps at least once a month if you posses one or more of the risk factors for this disease.
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Prevent late detection of this disease by informing your doctor of any pain or discomfort you might feel in your scrotum, pelvis or in your lower back. Prolonged discomfort in these areas may indicate the presence of testicular cancer.
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Schedule regular physical examinations with your primary physician as part of a healthy lifestyle.
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Tips & Warnings
Make an appointment to see your physician if you feel you have symptoms that might indicate a testicular cancer diagnosis. Ask your doctor what further tests may be required to confirm the diagnosis.
Prevent your family members from finding out about their risks for this disease too late by sharing your medical history with them.
You have the right to be fully informed about the side effects of cancer treatments, should you need them. Ask your doctor for information or referrals if you have concerns about issues such as infertility.
Facing a diagnosis of testicular cancer can be a scary experience. Even if you find that you test negatively for this disease, you may feel frightened or sad. Help assuage your fears by educating yourself about this disease, and ask for the support of your friends and family.
