by Jessica Mason | Apr 15, 2026 | Uncategorized
Testicular cancer awareness and early detection can make a life-saving difference, especially for younger men. Testicular cancer is one of the most treatable cancers when detected early, yet many men are unaware of the symptoms or the importance of regular self-exams.
During Testicular Cancer Awareness Month, it’s important to highlight how simple self-awareness and early evaluation can lead to earlier diagnosis and highly successful treatment outcomes.
According to the American Cancer Society, testicular cancer is most commonly diagnosed in men between the ages of 20 and 34, although it can occur at any age.
Understanding Testicular Cancer
Testicular cancer develops in the testicles, which are located in the scrotum and are responsible for producing sperm and the hormone, testosterone. The most common type begins in germ cells, which are the cells that produce sperm.
Although testicular cancer is relatively uncommon compared with other cancers, it is one of the most common cancers in younger men.
The good news is that when found early, treatment is often very effective.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
Being aware of changes in the testicles is one of the most important steps in early detection. Symptoms may include:
- A painless lump or swelling in either testicle
- A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
- Pain or discomfort in the testicle or scrotum
- Enlargement or tenderness of breast tissue
- Dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin
- Sudden fluid buildup in the scrotum
Not all lumps or changes are cancer, but any unusual changes should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Why Self-Exams Matter
Many cases of testicular cancer are first discovered by men themselves. Regular self-exams can help individuals become familiar with what is normal for their bodies and recognize changes more quickly.
A self-exam only takes a few minutes and can be performed during or after a warm shower when the skin of the scrotum is relaxed.
During a self-exam:
- Gently roll each testicle between your fingers and thumb
- Look for lumps, swelling, or changes in size or firmness
- Notice any discomfort or unusual sensations
If something feels different or unusual, it is important to schedule a medical evaluation.
Risk Factors for Testicular Cancer
Certain factors may increase the risk of developing testicular cancer, including:
- A history of undescended testicle
- Family history of testicular cancer
- Personal history of testicular cancer
- Certain genetic conditions
- Being between the ages of 20 and 40
However, many men diagnosed with testicular cancer do not have any known risk factors.
Early Detection Leads to Better Outcomes
The survival rate for testicular cancer is very high, particularly when the disease is found early. According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year survival rate for localized testicular cancer is more than 95 percent. This is why awareness, self-exams, and timely medical evaluation are so important.
Talking openly about testicular health and encouraging regular self-checks can help more men recognize symptoms earlier and seek care when needed.
by Jessica Mason | Apr 9, 2026 | Uncategorized
Head and neck cancer symptoms can sometimes seem minor at first but recognizing them early can make a meaningful difference in diagnosis and treatment outcomes. During Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, it is important to understand the warning signs and know when to talk with a healthcare provider.
Head and neck cancers develop in the mouth, throat, voice box, nasal cavity, sinuses, or salivary glands. These cancers often begin in the squamous cells that line the surfaces of these areas. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 65,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with head and neck cancers each year.
Awareness of symptoms and risk factors can help support earlier evaluation and treatment.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
Many symptoms of head and neck cancer can resemble common illnesses or minor conditions. However, symptoms that persist for more than two weeks should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Signs that should not be ignored include:
- A persistent sore throat
- Hoarseness or changes in the voice
- Difficulty swallowing or pain when swallowing
- A lump or swelling in the neck
- Mouth sores that do not heal
- Persistent ear pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Red or white patches inside the mouth
While these symptoms may be caused by other conditions, early evaluation helps rule out serious concerns and ensures timely care if needed.
Risk Factors for Head and Neck Cancer
Several factors can increase a person’s risk of developing head and neck cancer.
The most common risk factors include:
- Tobacco use, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and smokeless tobacco
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly HPV-16
- Prolonged sun exposure to the lips
- Poor oral hygiene
- Exposure to certain workplace chemicals or dust
HPV-related cancers of the throat have become increasingly common in recent years, particularly among younger adults who may not have traditional risk factors such as tobacco use.
Why Early Evaluation Matters
Head and neck cancers are often more treatable when they are detected early. If symptoms persist or worsen, your provider may recommend imaging tests, a biopsy, or referral to a specialist for further evaluation.
Early diagnosis can allow for more treatment options and may reduce the need for more aggressive therapies.
Regular dental visits, awareness of changes in your mouth or throat, and conversations with your healthcare provider about symptoms are important steps in early detection.
When to Talk to Your Doctor
If you notice any persistent symptoms involving the mouth, throat, or neck, especially those lasting longer than two weeks, it is important to seek medical evaluation. Early assessment helps identify the cause and ensures appropriate care.
During Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, taking a moment to understand these warning signs can help individuals recognize when to seek care and support earlier detection.
by Jessica Mason | Mar 24, 2026 | Uncategorized
Living with multiple myeloma can be physically and emotionally challenging, but understanding the disease and available treatments can help patients and families navigate the journey with more confidence and support.
What Is Multiple Myeloma?
Multiple myeloma is a type of blood cancer that forms in plasma cells, a kind of white blood cell found in the bone marrow that helps the body fight infections. In myeloma, these cells become cancerous and crowd out healthy blood cells, leading to symptoms like fatigue, bone pain, and increased risk of infection.
Unlike other cancers, multiple myeloma is often chronic, meaning it may not be curable but can often be managed over time with treatment.
Common Symptoms
Myeloma can affect different parts of the body and cause a variety of symptoms, including:
- Bone pain or fractures (especially in the back, ribs, or hips)
- Fatigue or weakness
- Frequent infections
- High calcium levels
- Kidney dysfunction
- Weight loss or appetite changes
Talk to your doctor if you’re experiencing persistent or unexplained symptoms.
Risk Factors and Diagnosis
Multiple myeloma most often affects people over age 65, and it’s more common in men and in African American populations. Other risk factors include:
- A personal history of monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUC)
- Family history of myeloma
- Obesity or long-term exposure to certain chemicals like pesticides or radiation
Diagnosis typically involves blood tests, urine tests, bone marrow biopsy, and imaging studies (X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs).
Treatment Options
Treatment is highly individualized and may include:
- Targeted therapy
- CAR-T Cell Therapy
- Corticosteroids
- Stem cell transplant (often after initial treatment to prolong remission)
New therapies are emerging that offer hope for longer remission periods and improved quality of life. Many patients live for years with myeloma, especially with early diagnosis, newer treatments, and strong care teams.
Living with Myeloma
Myeloma is a complex disease that requires ongoing monitoring and lifestyle support. Patients and caregivers should prioritize:
- Regular follow-ups with their oncology team
- Managing side effects like fatigue and bone loss
- Infection prevention strategies
- Mental and emotional well-being
- Support groups and education resources
You are not alone. There are resources, treatments, and communities ready to walk alongside you.
by Jessica Mason | Mar 11, 2026 | Uncategorized
Kidney cancer is often caught by chance, but recognizing symptoms and understanding risk factors can help you take control of your health and catch it early.
What is Kidney Cancer?
Kidney cancer begins in the tissues of the kidneys, the two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine. The most common type is renal cell carcinoma, which accounts for about 90% of adult kidney cancers. While some tumors are slow growing, others can be aggressive and require early diagnosis for the best outcome.
Symptoms of Kidney Cancer
In the early stages, kidney cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. As the disease progresses, you may experience:
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
- Persistent pain in the side or back
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- A lump or mass in the abdomen or side
- Fever not caused by an infection
- Swelling in the legs or ankles
Because many of these symptoms overlap with other health issues, it’s important to speak with your provider if you notice any changes.
What Are the Risk Factors?
Certain factors can increase your risk of developing kidney cancer, including:
- Smoking
- Obesity
- High blood pressure
- Family history of kidney cancer
- Chronic kidney disease or long-term dialysis
- Exposure to harmful substances, such as a trichloroethylene or cadmium in the workplace
Men and people over 60 are also at higher risk.
How is Kidney Cancer Diagnosed?
Many cases of kidney cancer are discovered during imaging for unrelated issues. Diagnosis may include:
- Blood and urine tests to assess kidney function
- Imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI
- Biopsy, if needed to confirm diagnosis
Why Early Detection Matters
Finding kidney cancer early, before it spreads beyond the kidney, significantly improves treatment success. According to the American Cancer Society, the 5-year relative survival rate for localized kidney cancer is 93%.
Routine checkups and talking with your doctor about symptoms or family history can lead to early detection and better outcomes.
Treatment Options
Depending on the stage and type, treatment may include:
- Surgery to remove part of all of the kidney
- Ablation or embolization therapies
- Immunotherapy
- Targeted therapy
- Active surveillance for small, slow-growing tumors
Your care team will guide you through the best approach based on your individual needs.
by Jessica Mason | Mar 3, 2026 | Uncategorized
Colon cancer screening saves lives, and if you’re 45 or older, now is the time to start. Regular screening can help detect colon cancer early, when it’s most treatable, and even prevent it by finding and removing precancerous polyps.
Why Screening Matters
Colon cancer (also called colorectal cancer) is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States for both men and women, yet is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer. Screening allows doctors to find changes in the colon or rectum before cancer develops or in its earliest stages, when treatment is most effective.
The American Cancer Society recommends that adults at average risk begin regular colon cancer screening at age 45.
What Are the Screening Options?
There are several effective screening methods, and your provider can help you choose the one that’s best for you:
- Colonoscopy (every 10 years): A procedure that allows doctors to examine the entire colon and remove polyps if needed
- Stool-based tests:
- FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test) or gFOBT (every year): Detect blood in the stool.
- Stool DNA test (e.g. Cologuard) (every 3 years): Looks for DNA changes and blood.
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy (every 5 years): Examines the lower part of the colon.
If any of these tests show abnormal results, a follow-up colonoscopy is usually recommended.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
Some people should begin screening earlier or be screened more frequently. Risk factors include:
- Personal or family history of colon cancer or polyps
- A history of inflammation bowel disease (Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis)
- Certain hereditary conditions like Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
Talk to your doctor about your personal risk and the right screening plan for you.
How You Can Take Action
- If you’re 45 or older, ask your doctor about getting screened
- Know your family history and share it with your care team
- Maintain a healthy diet, limit alcohol, avoid smoking, and stay active; all of which may help lower your risk
Early detection saves lives. Screening is simple, often covered by insurance, and could be the most important step you take this year.
by Jessica Mason | Feb 25, 2026 | Uncategorized
Early cancer detection can save lives. When cancer is found in its earliest stages, it is often easier to treat, less likely to have spread, and associated with better outcomes. That is why routine screenings are such a powerful part of cancer prevention and care.
As part of National Cancer Prevention Month, we are highlighting how screenings work, what tests may be recommended, and why speaking with you provider could make all the difference.
Why Timing Matters
Many types of cancer grow slowly and quietly. You may not notice symptoms until the disease has advanced. In some cases, like cervical or colon cancer, screening can even detect abnormal cells before they become cancer at all.
The earlier cancer is detected, the more options patients usually have for treatment and recovery. Regular screenings help providers identify changes before they become more serious.
Recommended Cancer Screenings
Your screening plan may depend on your age, gender, health history, and family background. These are some of the most common screening tests used in cancer prevention:
Your provider will help determine which tests are appropriate based on your health profile.
Risk Factors That May Require Earlier Screening
Some individuals may need screenings at a younger age or more frequently. Talk to your care team if you have:
- A personal or family history of cancer
- A known genetic mutation, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2
- A history of smoking or heavy alcohol use
- Obesity or a sedentary lifestyle
- Exposure to certain chemicals or radiation
- A weakened immune system
Risk-based screening plans help personalize your care and may lead to earlier interventions when needed.
Overcoming Common Barriers
Many people delay or skip screenings because they are nervous, unsure about the process, or feel healthy and symptom-free. But early detection is often most effective before symptoms start. If you are unsure where to begin, your provider or care navigator can walk you through next steps, coverage options, and testing logistics.
Remember: screening is not the same as a diagnosis. It is a proactive step you can take to protect your long-term health.
Talk to Your Provider
You do not need to navigate this alone. Whether it has been years since your last screening or you are not sure what you need, now is the time to have that conversation. Your provider will help you understand your risk, review your family history, and recommend the right tests for you.
Taking action today could change everything tomorrow.
Reach out to our office today to schedule your screening needs today at 843-790-8280.
