Testicular self-exam is a screening test used to look for abnormal growths on the testicles. Testicular cancer is the number one cause of cancer deaths in young men between ages fifteen and thirty-four. Between 500 to 1000 men die of this disease yearly in the United States. Because it is highly curable when found early, it is important to perform regular self-exam.

Self-exam should be performed by all men monthly, from the teen years forward. The purpose of this exam is to detect any unusual lumps, swellings, tenderness or excess fluid in the testicular area. The testicles are located in the sac (the scrotum) below the penis. To perform this exam:
* Stand naked in front of a mirror and examine the testicles for any signs of swelling.
* Roll the testicles between the thumb and forefingers, feeling for any unusual lumps. Cancers typically feel like easily moved peas under the skin.
* Examine the cord-like areas on the top and back of the sac for any abnormal thickenings.
* Feel the tubes that go into the above areas; feel for any changes in firmness or thickness.
* Examine the testicles for changes in firmness, swelling, accumulation of fluid or tenderness.

Growths may not be testicular cancer. But, because testicular cancer grows so rapidly, report any changes to your health care provider right away.

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