What should I look for during a testicular examination?

Early detection of testicular cancer increases a man’s chance of survival by 90% -- that’s right, 90%. It’s especially important for caucasian men under 40 because they are at the greatest risk. And guess what? A doctor’s visit isn’t necessary. Men simply need to take a few minutes at home once a year to conduct their own exams. Their partners even can help.

Here’s how:

• Slowly roll each testicle between your thumb and fingers one at a time, gently feeling all over for any lumps or hardness. Normal testicles should feel soft. Cancer may feel like a knuckle or a small, hard bean.
• Make sure that neither testicle has grown smaller since your last check. The testicle should be about an inch and a half long (don’t worry, a ruler isn’t needed; just put two fingers together, lining up the fingernails, and compare that width to your testicle width). Testicles smaller than that could indicate a higher risk for testicular cancer.
• If a lump or abnormality is detected, schedule a doctor’s appointment right away.