Bloomington Herald-Times, March 30, 2009
Testicular cancer is the most common form of cancer for men between the ages of 15 and 35 years old. Symptoms include a lump or enlargement in either testicle, a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum, a dull ache in the abdomen or groin, a sudden collection of fluid in the scrotum, pain or discomfort in a testicle or the scrotum, or enlargement or tenderness of the breasts.
When caught early, testicular cancer has a survival rate of more than 95%, but it is best to catch it early. Since warning signs appear quickly after a tumor forms, men should perform a monthly testicular self-examination to check for warning signs of cancer. For more information, see http://health.rutgers.edu/factsheets/testicular.htm.
I am a cancer survivor. On March 21, 1997, I had a procedure I never expected to have at 23 years old. I had a testicle removed because of the cancer growing inside me. After an outpatient surgery with little pain (I have a very low tolerance for pain) and regular checkups, I was pronounced cancer-free in 2002. Twelve years after the surgery, I am still cancer free.
Men, watch for he warning signs of testicular cancer. Vigilance may save your life.
Scott Tibbs.
