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Men's health

The importance of men's health: cancer and mental health

November calls attention to men's health: testicular cancer, prostate cancer, and mental health. Learn the warning signs and when to see a doctor.

By Dr. Salvador BricioDr. Salvador Bricio

Certified urologist. Medical review pending2 min. Medical review pending

2 min read

Men's health

Key points

  • November is men's health month, with three main topics: testicular cancer, prostate cancer, and mental health.
  • Increased hardness or size in a testicle is a reason to see a specialist, even if it does not hurt.
  • In its early stages, prostate cancer usually causes no symptoms; a blood test called PSA helps detect it.
  • A general checkup with a urologist is recommended starting at age 45.
  • If you feel deep sadness or have thoughts of taking your life, it is important to seek professional help.

November, men's health month

November is men's health month. Throughout the month, men are encouraged to take care of their health in three main areas: testicular cancer, prostate cancer, and mental health.

Go to a hospital emergency room right away

If you are thinking about taking your life

If you or someone close to you is having suicidal thoughts or is in danger, go to the emergency room or call 911.

The office does not handle emergencies: go directly to a hospital.

Testicular cancer

It is a disease that occurs in young men, most often between the ages of 15 and 35. It is characterized by the following findings:

  • Increased firmness

    Increased firmness (hardness) of the testicle.

  • Increased size

    Enlargement of the testicle.

  • Pain

    It generally does not hurt.

Risk factors for testicular cancer

  • Cryptorchidism

    An important risk factor: one or both testicles do not descend into the scrotum before birth.

  • Family history

    A family history of testicular cancer has also been described.

  • Estrogen exposure

    The mother's exposure to estrogen during pregnancy has also been described.

Self-examination and early detection

When it is detected early, there is a greater chance of treating it successfully. Self-examination helps you know your own body and notice changes. If you detect anything abnormal, it is advisable to see a specialist to clear up any doubts.

Prostate cancer

As with many cancers, the chances of treating it successfully are greater when it is detected early.

  • A very common tumor

    It usually affects men over 60 years of age.

  • A silent tumor

    In its initial stage it usually causes no symptoms, and these tend to appear once it is advanced.

  • Detection with PSA

    A blood test called prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is used to detect it.

  • Checkup starting at age 45

    It is important to see a urologist for a general checkup and to identify risk factors for developing cancer later in life.

Mental health

Suicide is an important cause of death among men ages 20 to 45. According to the World Health Organization, the suicide rate is higher in men than in women.

Several factors can lead to suicide. Depression is one of the most frequent, and there are others, such as financial difficulties and family or relationship problems.

If you have felt desperate, sad, or the idea of taking your life has crossed your mind, it is important to know that there are people willing to help you, or a friend or relative who is going through this situation.

Seeking professional help from a psychologist can keep negative thoughts from having deadly consequences.

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