#CheckYourChaps – Get Your Men to Check Their Chaps

#CheckYourChaps – Get Your Men to Check Their Chaps

Did you know that on average only 32% of men regularly check their testicles? Young men are even less likely to check themselves which is particularly worrying as testicular cancer is most common in men aged between 15 and 45.

New research shows that:

• only 25% of young men check their testicles on a regular basis
• 22% never bother to check at all
• a staggering 78% of men aged 18-24 did not know their age group is most at risk of testicular cancer

The male cancer charity Orchid wants to raise awareness this month and get all men to check themselves for the signs of testicular cancer as part of their #CheckYourChaps campaign.

They’re also asking women to encourage their partner or family members to put their hands down their pants a little more often — at least once a month anyway.

“The results of our research confirm that young people clearly need more education and information on testicular cancer if we are to improve the rate of early detection. Whilst education establishments and social media can play a big role in providing this, there is also a role for parents to talk to their sons and get them more connected with their own health.”

Rebecca Porta, Chief Executive of Orchid

Every year, around 2,200 will be diagnosed with testicular cancer and 60 young men will die because of it. It doesn’t need to be like this though as if caught early, the cure rate is over 98% so the odds are great. The best way to fight testicular cancer is simply to check regularly.

How to #CheckYourChaps:

1. Check the entire surface of each testicle separately, and carefully. After a shower is best, when everything is relaxed
2. Roll each testicle between the thumb and forefinger to check that the surface is free of lumps or bumps. Do not squeeze!
3. Get to know your balls; their size, texture, anatomy, magnificence. Identify the epididymis or sperm collecting tube, often mistaken for an abnormal lump that runs behind each testicle
4. Having your partner check too is always a good thing as they may be more likely to notice any problems and help give you the support to get you to do something about it

If you feel any abnormality on the testicle, you should go to your doctor and get it checked at the earliest opportunity.

For further information on testicular cancer visit www.yourprivates.org.uk

How you can support Orchid during Male Cancer Awareness Month

You can show your support for Orchid by buying the ‘The Meaning of Husbands’ book, a new addition to the popular ‘The Meaning of Everything’ series. £1 from each sale goes straight to Orchid and the entertaining quotes and many valuable life lessons have been inspired by husbands (and wives) all over the world.

Get your copy from: www.meaningofeverything.com/Books