Simple Things Young People Can Do to Stay Healthy

When it comes to what is on the minds of young people, health is probably not near the top of the list. Teens and young adults seem too busy with dating, friends, and partying to worry about taking care of their bodies, and the consequences that their decisions may have later in life. Of course, most young people are healthy and serious illnesses among this age group are not common, but that doesn't mean that there aren't things that teens and young adults need to do to make sure they stay healthy. There are some simple self-checks that people in the 15-35 age group can do to make sure they prevent disease and catch any abnormalities early.

Beginning at age fifteen, men should perform monthly testicular self-exams to check for any abnormalities. Overall, testicular cancer is rare, but it is the most common cancer of men in this age group, and is virtually 100% curable if caught in its early stages. Ideally, self-exams should be performed after a warm bath or shower, when the skin over the scrotum is looser, to allow for the most through exam. To begin, place your hand directly under the scrotum and check for any swelling, lumps, or any other abnormalities. Then, gently but firmly role one testicle at a time between your thumb and index finger. Check for any lumps, swelling, hardness, or tenderness. During your exam, you should feel a rope-like structure on top of and around the side of each testicle. This is called your epididymis, and is not a tumor or anything to be concerned about. It is also normal for one testicle to hang lower than the other, but if one testicle is swollen or is noticeably larger than the other, get it examined. If you feel any lumps, tenderness, swelling, hardening, or anything that you think is abnormal, have your doctor examine it immediately. There are many non-cancerous conditions that can cause these symptoms, but any abnormalities should be examined immediately because only your doctor can make an accurate diagnosis.