10. Cervical & Testicular Cancer

cervical cancer most commonly occurs in middle age, but _____ starts in childhood

prevention

what vaccine prevents cervical cancer?

HPV vaccine

• recommended for all kids starting at age 9

when should the HPV) vaccine ideally be given?

before first sexual contact

• usually starting at 9 for all kids

when does cervical cancer screening with a Pap smear begin? *

age 18 or first sexual contact

what are risk factors for cervical cancer?

• young age at first intercourse

• STIs

• multiple sexual partners

what age group commonly develops testicular cancer?

adolescents

• high cure rate if caught before metastasis

what local manifestations can occur with testicular cancer?

• testicular mass or lump

• painless scrotal enlargement

• sudden fluid collection in the scrotum

• heaviness or dull ache in the scrotum or inguinal area

• back pain, abdominal pain, or weight loss (late signs)

what are late signs of testicular cancer?

• back pain

• abdominal pain

• weight loss

how is testicular cancer treated?

removal of the affected testicle (orchiectomy)

• with chemotherapy or radiation if needed

complications of testicular cancer

• metastasis

• fertility issues (try sperm banking)

• libido changes

how often should testicular self-exams be performed? *

once a month

• use the same day each month for consistency

when is the best time to perform a testicular self-exam?

after a warm bath or shower

what are the steps of a testicular self-exam?

1. use both hands to examine one testicle

2. gently roll the testicle between fingers and thumb

3. feel for lumps

4. locate and palpate the epididymis

5. repeat on the other side

what does the epididymis feel like during a testicular self-exam?

a cordlike structure toward the back of the testicle

what are normal findings during a testicular self-exam?

• smooth skin without lumps

• no pain or swelling

• no signs of infection

• one teste might be bigger than the other (normal)