Regular visits to a urologist are essential for men, not only to maintain urinary and reproductive health but also to detect serious conditions such as prostate and testicular cancer at an early stage.
Professor Axel Merseburger, a German urology specialist, recommends that men seek medical advice if they experience any of the following symptoms:
Frequent or painful urination
Erectile dysfunction
Unexplained abdominal pain
Visible changes such as signs of inflammation in the genital area or testicular hardening
Testicular Pain and Underlying Causes
A spokesperson for the German Society of Urology explained that these symptoms may stem from common issues such as urinary tract infections, kidney stones, or prostate enlargement. However, in more serious cases, they can also signal prostate or testicular cancer.
Prostate Cancer Screening
Urologist Dr. Robert Friese stressed the importance of routine prostate screening for men beginning at the age of 45. Prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer among men, and early detection greatly improves outcomes.
Screening typically involves a physical examination of the penis and scrotum, along with a digital rectal exam to assess the prostate and nearby lymph nodes. A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test may also be conducted, which serves as an important biomarker for early detection.
Dr. Friese cautioned against skipping the physical exam entirely, as it can provide critical information about the size, shape, and texture of the prostate, as well as help identify abnormalities that could be linked to prostate or even colorectal cancer.
Testicular Cancer Awareness
Professor Merseburger noted that testicular cancer is rare but most commonly affects men between the ages of 20 and 40. Risk factors include a family history of the disease and cases where one or both testicles failed to descend properly, even if corrected surgically.
He emphasised the importance of monthly self-examinations for early detection. The best time to perform the check is after a warm shower, when the scrotal skin is relaxed. Men should stand in front of a mirror, look for swelling or skin changes, and then gently roll each testicle between the thumb and fingers to feel for irregularities. A smooth surface with no hardness is a reassuring sign.
The self-exam should also include the epididymis, a soft, curved structure located on top and behind the testicle. Any thickening, hardening, swelling, or unusual firmness should prompt immediate consultation with a urologist. Even small lumps, no larger than a pea, should be taken seriously.
Experts stress that men should never ignore changes such as heaviness, swelling, or abnormal texture in the testicles, as prompt medical evaluation is key to effective treatment.
