Even Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson Gets Checked: Medical Facts on Testicular Cancer
June is Men’s Health Month, which is a reminder for men to pay attention to their bodies. Studies show that many men avoid going to the doctor. Some would rather clean the house or mow the lawn. But waiting too long to get a health check can be dangerous.
Hollywood star Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson recently shared a major health scare. While taking a shower, he found a painful lump on his testicle. He was worried it could be cancer, so he went to a doctor right away.
The doctor found out it wasn’t cancerous. It was a swelling called epididymitis, which is easy to treat. But his story shows why it’s important to pay attention to any changes in the body.
Testicular cancer is the most common cancer for men between the ages of 20 and 40. However, it can happen at any age. It’s highly curable if it’s found early. If a person waits too long, the cancer can spread to other parts of the body and become harder to treat.
Men should know the common signs of testicular cancer. They include:
- A lump or bump on either testicle.
- A change in how big the testicle looks or feels.
- A heavy feeling in the lower belly or scrotum (the sack of skin holding the testicles).
- An ache in the groin.
Most of the time, these lumps don’t hurt. However, as Johnson found out, some can cause pain.
Checking yourself once a month is a simple way to catch problems early. The best time to do a self-exam is during or right after a warm bath or shower. The warm water relaxes the skin. This makes it easier to feel if anything is different.
Many lumps aren’t cancer, but seeing a doctor right away is the only way to know for sure.
This Men’s Health Month, Johnson’s story is a reminder for men to stay on top of their health.
To find a specialist at Jackson Health System, visit medicalgroup.jacksonhealth.org or call305-585-4JMG(564).
Image: Harald Krichel / WikiPortraits, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
