April is Testicular Cancer Awareness Month
Written By: Daniela Ferreyros, Sports Medicine & Fitness Technology Student, KU Fort Lauderdale
Testicular cancer can develop on one or both testicles and is easily spreadable towards other organs such as the brain and lungs. This type of cancer is very rare, only 1% accounts for cancer in males. However, if a male was to be diagnosed it is generally between the ages of 15-30. An estimated 8,500 males are diagnosed with testicular cancer but only 350 die from it. If caught early, the chance of survival is 100% but if diagnosed at a late stage, the chance drops to 80%. Some signs may include any enlargement of a testicle, a significant loss of size in one of the testicles, or a dull ache in the lower abdomen, back or in the penis. As a man, you can always self-exam, check for any swelling in the testicles, and feel for irregular textures such as lumps. It is important to always remember that many men who develop testicular cancer have no risk factors at all. Testicular cancer is a very rare type of cancer that can easily be avoided, or if diagnosed, can be treated. No one knows your body better than you, so be aware, alert and always take action.
April is Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month
Written by: Joshua Upegui,Sports Med & Fitness Technology Student, KU Fort Lauderdale
“You have esophageal cancer.” That is a sentence no one ever wants to hear from a doctor. Just the word “cancer” is terrifying to any person. However, there are some cancers that are treatable with chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation treatment, and if caught in early stages, most of them can be cured. Esophageal cancer is a change of DNA in the cells of the esophagus (tube that transports the food from the throat to the stomach). It has not been determined what actually causes this disease, but there are several risk factors to consider. Risks include the excessive consumption of alcohol and hot drinks, having Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), and/or eating enough fruits and vegetables, among others. There are several symptoms that can display signs of esophageal cancer including: constant heartburn or indigestion, trouble swallowing, unexplained weight loss, chest pain, and coughing. Although this is not a common disease in the Unites States, always be aware of the symptoms; your body might be telling you to see a doctor, and possibly save your life.
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