Cancer of the testicles is the NUMBER ONE CANCER IN TEENAGE BOYS AND YOUNG ADULT MEN. It can strike at any time after maturity. No one knows what causes this cancer. It is relatively rare, but slowly increasing. A young man has about a one in 10,000 chance yearly of developing testicular cancer.

When it is found in its early stages, when it is just a lump in the testicle and has not spread, this cancer is almost 100% curable. You can detect it by examining your testicles at least once a month. It takes only 30 seconds while you are in the shower. It could save your life. Here's how to go about it:

1. Roll each testicle between the thumb and first three fingers until the entire surface has been covered. The testicles should feel round and smooth like hard boiled eggs.
   
2. Be on the lookout for lumps, irregularities, a change in the size of the testicle, pain in the testicle, or a dragging sensation. All of these are possible signs of a tumor. If you find any of them, consult your physician at once. Remember, you need to examine only the testicles themselves, not the sperm tubes or blood vessels that are also in the scrotum. Your doctor will show you the difference.
   
3. Pick a regular day of the month to examine your testicles: the day of your birthday, the first Sunday, or some other day that is easy to remember. Do the examination more frequently if you prefer.