None of us ever think that we could be affected by cancer. But the reality is that men, and young ones at that, are dying across the world from testicular cancer and all because while they constantly have their hands down their pants readjusting their tackle, they refuse to learn or just ignore its signs.
Cancer is always associated with something that happens to other, older, men. However, according to Mo Bro, and testicular cancer expert, Ben Bowers has firsthand experience of the disease, having lost both testicles to the disease in the last 11 years.
Speaking to The Sun Online he said that it's vital every man gets checking their testicles on a regular basis, to stop men dying needlessly.
"Guys out there need to know the risks, and need to get to know their nuts," he said, adding, "Check them regularly and if there's anything odd down there get it checked by a doctor."
Here are the signs of testicular cancer:
A lump or swelling in the testicle: This is the most common symptom. The lump could be as small as a pea, but is often a lot larger. You may also notice a difference between one testicle and the other. Gently feel each testicle individually to check for lumps. If you do find a lump, don’t panic. Only four per cent are actually cancerous – but it’s still definitely worth getting checked out.
A heavy scrotum: It’s normal for one testicle to be slightly larger or hanging lower than the other. But a noticeable change in size or weight on one side may indicate that something is wrong.
A sharp pain in the testicle or scrotum: Testicular cancer is not usually painful, but a sharp pain in your balls is the first indicator for one in five patients.
Changes in shape or texture: This makes it especially important to check yourself over regularly.
Other symptoms:
- If the cancer has spread to lymph glands in other parts of the body, you may develop a backache, a dull ache in the lower tummy and lumps in the collar bone or neck.
- If the cancer has spread to the lungs, you will cough and have difficulty breathing.
- Cancer can produce hormones, leading to tender or swollen breasts and if the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes in the centre of your chest, between the lungs there will be difficulty swallowing, a swelling in your chest.
