Oncology in men: a sign that is not so easy to detect – check yourself

Although cancer is a truly terrifying prospect, being able to get a quick diagnosis can increase your chances of successfully fighting this disease. Here's one painless sign that an expert says can only be detected by checking yourself.

One in two people will develop cancer at some point in their lives. Although testicular cancer is one of the least common types, more than 2,000 men are diagnosed with it each year. The good news is that it is one of the most treatable cancers, but it must first be identified.

Unlike prostate cancer, testicular cancer tends to receive less attention.

Although testicular cancer is rare compared to other cancers, affecting about one in 250 people, it remains one of the most common forms of cancer in men between the ages of 15 and 35. This highlights the importance of understanding the warning signs and knowing how to properly check your testicles. It’s easy to spot some of the most common warning signs of testicular cancer, such as pain or swelling. But this doesn’t apply to everyone, and some symptoms aren’t as easy to spot, so it’s important to check your testicles at least once a month.

Sometimes warning signs don’t cause any pain at all, making them difficult to detect. According to the doctor, one of the warning signs is a painless lump, swelling, or enlargement in the testicle area.

Other key signs to look out for include:

• A feeling of increased hardness in your testicle(s)
• A feeling of heaviness in your scrotum
• A dull or sharp pain in your testicles or scrotum that may come and go
• A difference in appearance between your two testicles

If you notice any warning signs, it's important to see your doctor, as they can perform additional tests and examinations. It's more likely that you won't have testicular cancer, but seeking professional advice means that any growths can be addressed sooner rather than later, and your treatment plan can begin quickly.