Get yourself checked lads and lead the fight against testicular cancer

Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young Irish men but to help lead the fight against it, it’s vital that Irish men are prepared to undergo a simple check-up

It’s a generational thing amongst Irish men that going to the doctor for a health check is almost seen as a sign of weakness but thankfully we seem to be getting better and that can only help in the fight to prevent cancer, including testicular cancer. Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in men between the ages of 15 and 34 in Ireland, but in recent years the survival rate for testicular cancer has increased dramatically to around 95%, largely due to increased awareness and advancements in treatments. Our willingness to get ourselves checked also helps; the earlier it’s detected, the better the chance it will be cured. Spot the symptoms You should check your testicles regularly for any unusual lumps or bumps. A lump on a testicle, enlargement or swelling of the scrotum, or a dull ache or pain felt in the testes, abdomen or sometimes the lower back are some things to look out for. Symptoms usually present in only one testicle. But men shouldn’t panic or assume they have cancer if they have any of the described effects, as these symptoms are often due to other less threatening causes. If you notice anything different or have concerns go to see your local GP. Getting treatment Treatment does not normally affect a man’s erectile function or masculinity, making testicular cancer one of the most curable of all internal cancers. Learning that you have testicular cancer is tough, but there a lot of good people doing a lot of great work to help increase awareness and to help lead the fight against it and for more information on various aspects of dealing with testicular cancer, check out the Blue September Ireland website, proudly sponsored by Vhi HI Healthcare. Dare to go Blue & face up to men’s cancer. Visit www.BlueSeptember.ie