Even with hundreds of ways to describe them, it’s still somewhat awkward to talk about the family jewels. During April, you may see T-shirts urging you to “Grab life by the balls” or “Check your nuts” during Testicular Cancer Awareness Month.
Humor is one way to raise awareness of a cancer that has the highest rate of diagnosis among males between the ages of 15 to 44, according to the Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation. The American Cancer Society reports that the average age at the time of diagnosis is about 33, and about 1 of every 250 males will develop testicular cancer at some point during their lifetime.
Are You a Man? Then Self-Exam!
One reason why raising awareness is so important is that testicular cancer is highly treatable when detected early. Most testicular cancers are found by men themselves or their partner, so it is important for men to be familiar with what is normal and to see a doctor immediately if any changes are detected. The Testicular Cancer Society recommends doing a monthly self exam during or right after a warm shower or bath.
Cancer, SSDI and Returning to Work
The five-year relative survival rate for testicular cancer ranges from 73 to 99 percent depending on the stage of diagnosis. Treatment for testicular cancer will vary depending on the stage and type of cancer, and some men may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits if they are unable to work for 12 months or more. The online tool, empower by Allsup®, can help men apply for SSDI and help them return to work, while protecting their SSDI benefits, when they are medically able.
It may be an awkward conversation to initiate, so simply share this blog or tweet #FeelingNuts to the men in your life to get the message across.
