Social Media Generation Not Switched on to Testicular Cancer

News provided by

Orchid

15 Feb, 2016, 13:00 GMT

LONDON, February 15, 2016 /PRNewswire/ --

18-24 year olds were brought up on easy access to endless information, spending over 27 hours on the web every week. They're tooled up to tweet, snap and share at the click of a button but they're also the generation least aware of testicular cancer - despite being most at risk.

This February (Male Cancer Awareness Month 2016), male cancer charity, Orchid, is calling for all young men to get connected with their health and be more aware of testicular cancer, following bleak new research which reveals:

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

The Orchid research also reveals that 18-24 year olds have the least awareness amongst all age groups of the signs and symptoms of testicular cancer and how often you should check.

Rebecca Porta, Orchid CEO, comments: "Our research confirms that young people need more information on testicular cancer if we are to improve the rate of early detection and help save lives. Schools, social media, parents, partners and friends all have a part to play in getting them more connected with their own health."

Each year, testicular cancer affects over 2,200 men and around 60 young men will die of the disease. It most commonly affects men between the ages of 15-45 and if caught at an early stage, men can expect a 98% cure rate.

For more information, visit http://www.yourprivates.org.uk

ORCHID'S GUIDE TO CHECKING 

  1. Check the entire surface of each testicle separately using one or both hands  
  2. Roll each testicle between the thumb and forefinger to check that the surface is free of lumps or bumps 
  3. Get to know your balls; their size, texture, anatomy. Identify the epididymis or sperm collecting tube, often mistaken for an abnormal lump that runs behind each testicle 
  4. Encourage your partner to have a go as they may be more likely to identify a problem in the future and get you to do something about it 

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

For more information, or interviews with case studies, please contact:
James M. Butcher
+44(0)1444-811-099
james@spinkhealth.com