Gentlemen, know thy bodies

Traditionally, men tend to be more reticent about their health – they are less likely to see their doctor regularly or report worrying symptoms.

In a survey of men by the Movember Foundation, a huge 70% of those questioned said they had never performed a testicular self-examination, or they didn’t know what one was. April is Testicular Cancer Awareness Month, and the Movember Foundation hopes to use this month to address the very real need for men to be more informed of the risks they face and how they can check for signs.

Regular checks and early detection are crucial for a positive outcome in all cancers, and again, the foundation was concerned to find that 74% of men say they will only go to the doctor once they are sure that something is wrong, if they go at all.

Sam Gledhill, Testicular Cancer Lead at the Movember Foundation says, “Despite being the most common cancer in young men, testicular cancer is often a forgotten cancer. The reality is that if detected early testicular cancer is highly curable. Raising awareness of how to check yourself is incredibly important.

“We want to encourage guys to ‘get to know their nuts’ a little better and if they notice any lumps, swelling, pain or anything that doesn’t feel right, to see a doctor.”

In New Zealand, 150 men are diagnosed with testicular cancer each year. Current treatments mean that the vast majority of these men will survive, however 1 in 20 sadly don’t. The foundation would like mn of all ages to:

• Be aware of the signs and symptoms of testicular cancer
• Get to know what feels normal for them
• If they notice something that feels unusual or hurts, seek advice from a trusted doctor
• If they don’t have one already, find a doctor they trust and talk to them about any concerns they have

“Our ultimate goal is to see a world where no man dies of testicular cancer,” says Gledhill. “We’re working to achieve this by funding global projects to better understand the biology of testicular cancer and to support men through their journey. With help, we can continue to fund research and services needed for our sons, brothers, partners and mates to live happier, healthier and longer lives.”

This April, get a little hands-on. Get to know thy nuts!