Three Quarters of Teenage Boys are Putting Their Lives at Risk

LONDON, April 22, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --

New research* launched for Male Cancer Awareness Week (22-28 April), reveals 75% of teenage boys are unaware of their higher risk of testicular cancer and aren't checking for symptoms

New research* released today by Orchid, the male cancer charity, reveals that 75% of boys aged 14-18 aren't aware that they are most at risk of developing testicular cancer at a younger age and aren't checking themselves for signs of the disease. In fact, two-thirds of those surveyed were unsure of how to check for symptoms, despite 86% correctly identifying a lump as a sign of the disease.

Orchid's research highlights the need for better education and support for this age group and the importance of knowing how to undertake simple, life-saving self-checks. In response, and to mark the annual Orchid Male Cancer Awareness Week, the charity is encouraging young men to be better informed with the launch of a new 'Your Privates' campaign and http://www.yourprivates.org.uk    

Orchid Chief Executive Rebecca Porta says: "Every day 6 young men are diagnosed with the disease - that's over 2,200 cases every year. Yet, if caught early, testicular cancer has a cure rate of over 98%. 'Your Privates' is a new campaign that encourages young men to undertake regular, life-saving 'ball checks' and to be better informed. http://www.yourprivates.org.uk has been designed by young men, includes personal experiences from survivors, interviews with experts and the opportunity to chat to our specialist cancer nurses."  

The site is a useful resource for parents to point their teenage sons towards. Orchid Male Cancer Nurse Rob Cornes says: "I regularly talk to parents who were shocked their son got the disease at such a young age and wished they'd encouraged them to check for lumps. Parents need to overcome the embarrassment factor and broach the subject of 'ball checks' with their teenage sons."

GET TO KNOW YOUR PRIVATES: 2 life-saving tips for teenage boys

• Get to know your balls  Every time you are in the bath or shower examine each testicle - that way you'll spot any changes
• Roll, don't squeeze! Roll each testicle between your thumb and forefinger to check that the surface is free of lumps and bumps

*One Poll Teenage Testicular Cancer Survey, 1000 respondents, aged 14-18, March 2013