New research released today by Orchid, the male cancer charity, has found that 50% of men would feel more comfortable if their partner checked their testicles for the signs and symptoms of testicular cancer than their GP.
Testicular cancer is the most common cancer among young men aged 15-45 and affects around 2,000 men every year. However if caught early enough this common form of male cancer has a cure rate of over 95% yet in over 1/3 cases the disease will have spread before diagnosis.
With this in mind, Orchid are keen to encourage women to get more involved in their loved ones health, especially as almost three quarters (62%) of the men questioned revealed that although they would prefer their partner to carry out these vital checks, they never do.
The new survey also found that ‘embarrassment’ is a key barrier that stops men from making potentially lifesaving appointments with their GP for a testicle check-up.
Testicular cancer sufferer William Gingell was diagnosed at 17, he says:
‘I really owe my life to my girlfriend, it was her who found the lump in my testicle and without her encouragement and support I know I would have been far too embarrassed to make an appointment with my GP to get it checked out. I think this campaign is a great idea and wholeheartedly encourage women to check their partners or at least encourage their partners to check themselves; they may just save a life.’
HIS HEALTH IN YOUR HANDS
In light of this new research, Orchid will be continuing ‘His Health In Your Hands’ campaign throughout 2012, which calls on women to be proactive in encouraging their man to be aware of the signs and symptoms of the three male specific cancers - testicular, penile and prostate – so they can seek advice as early as possible.
If you would like more information about Orchid, symptom advice and details on how you can help fight male cancer visit their website www.orchid-cancer.org.uk.