Tackle tactics:

• Get into the habit of checking yourself once a month – try to do it at the same time as another monthly activity, (tidying your room?), so you'll remember.
• Stand in front of a mirror after a bath or warm shower. This will relax the testicles and the scrotal sac will hang comfortably. See any overall difference between each testicle?
  
• Do your testicles feel heavy?
  
• Feel for any swelling or a definite lump. It's usually at the front or side of a testicle.
  
• Do you feel any pain? Make note of any ache to your lower abdomen or testicles. Later pain may be backache, stomach ache or sore nipples. But be aware that there isn't always pain present with testicular cancer.
  
• Don't forget your willy. See if there is any discharge from your penis, like pus or blood.
  
• If you play a lot of sports, and sustain an injury to your testicles causing a lump, see your doctor. This is to ensure it disappears as a normal bruise or bump would.
  
• If you notice anything, tell someone – your girlfriend, mother, partner or mate. Once you've told someone, it will be far easier to talk to your GP who you should see immediately. If treatment is necessary, the sooner you get it, the better. Your GP will examine you and if necessary, refer you to a hospital specialist. Don't panic, whatever you do: treatments have improved vastly and most men can expect complete recovery.
  

Useful contacts:

CancerBACUP Cancer BACAP's website or call 020 7696 9003.