April is Testicular Cancer Awareness Month, and male cancers are one of the most important areas we work in. So, in association with Tommy John, the innovative underwear brand from the USA, we've put together this little guide.
Here’s some facts to get you started:
The solution is in your hands
Because testicular cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer when caught early, the most important thing for us to raise awareness of this month is making sure men are regularly checking themselves. The solution to this problem is literally in your hands.
Our pals at Tommy John spoke with Dr Dana Rice, a urologist in Washington D.C. and she had one simple piece of advice for men: “All men, but especially young men, should check their testicles regularly. Once you’re familiar with your own ‘normal’ you will be able to tell if anything is different. That could make all the difference.”
So, how do you check?
It’s pretty simple. Each time you have a shower or a bath, have a little check of your testicles. It doesn’t have to take long and it’s not complicated, either.
Just check one testicle at a time by holding it between your thumb and fingers and rolling it gently. When doing that you should be looking out for hard lumps, smooth or rounded bumps, or changes in size, shape, or consistency.
What do you do if you notice something wrong?
See a GP. It’s as simple as that.
Dr Jon Davies is a GP down in Cornwall. (He’s also rowing 3,000 miles unaided across the Atlantic Ocean with three friends to raise awareness of urology diseases like testicular cancer!) This is what he says you should do if you notice something wrong:
“If you notice something that could be a sign of testicular cancer, such as lumps, bumps or changes in shape or texture, then go and see your GP straight away. We can help you diagnose the problem and then promptly get you to the treatment you need. Caught early, testicular cancer is one of the most treatable types of cancer. Please don’t hesitate in a situation like this.”
What should you do next?
Spread the news! This is an awareness raising month, so share our Tweets and Facebook posts about testicular cancer, share this article, and tell your mates. Yes, it can be slightly awkward talking to your friends about testicular cancer, but we’re not exaggerating when we say that it could save their life.
Once you’ve done that, make self-checks a regular part of your shower routine.
Where does Tommy John come into all of this?
During the month of April, Tommy John is teaming up with the Testicular Cancer Foundation in the U.S. to raise and spread awareness about this disease. Throughout the month, Tommy John will be donating a percentage of sales of their special edition boxer brief prints to aid in furthering research and care. The message is clear; 60 seconds and a consultation with your doctor can make all the difference!
