Though the University has no men’s center to sponsor forums on men’s health similar to the one the Women’s Center hosted last month, the Student Health Center does provide men’s health information to any concerned students.
While women are more inclined to visit their gynecologists yearly, most adult males never have seen a urologist.
“I’ve never been,” said Brian Plaisance, an industrial engineering junior.
The key to male prevention of illness and early detection of STDs is regular visits to a urologist.
“Men who choose to be sexually active must also worry about the possibility of contracting a sexually transmitted disease,” said Kathy Saichuk, Wellness Education coordinator.
The main types of sexually transmitted diseases are viral, bacterial and parasitic.
“One in four college students will contract an STD before graduating,” said Courtney Stein, Wellness Education coordinator.
While bacterial and parasitic STDs can be treated, there is no known cure for viral STDs.
While abstinence remains the only 100 percent sure way to prevent STDs, the use of condoms greatly reduces the risk of catching some STDs.
However, many STDs can be spread through skin-to-skin contact, so prophylactics provide no protection against those.
“The most important thing for sexually active men is a regular checkup,” Saichuk said.
Another problem college age men should be concerned with is testicular cancer.
Testicular cancer is most prevalent in men ages 15-35.
However, many men are unaware of the disease.
“The only thing I know about it is you could lose one,” Plaisance said.
A simple procedure done in the shower can help men detect testicular cancer earlier to help improve chances of survival.
“Take a warm shower or soak, and then check out your boys,” Stein said.
According to LSU Student Health Center literature, men first should place their index finger and middle finger on the underside of each testicle, feeling for any abnormal lumps or swellings.
The brochure then recommends examining the back of each testicle to check for abnormalities.
Men should examine their penis and scrotum for any sores or rough bumps.
Uncircumcised men should gently pull back the foreskin to check the glans, or the head of the penis, and the inside of the foreskin.
The brochure states the next step for men is to examine the opening of the urethra. It should not be red or painful; no yellow or white discharge should occur.
Lastly, men should feel their groin area on both sides for any growths, lumps or swollen glands.
“The test should be done monthly in the shower,” Stein said.