Testicular Cancer
Testicular Cancer is a tumour that arises in the testicle (balls) and may spread to other organs in the body.
In a Nutshell
What is Testicular Cancer?
- Testicular cancer is a tumour that arises in the testicle (balls) and may spread to other organs in the body
- It is the most common cause of cancer in young men (age 15-40)
- It is a curable cancer especially if detected early
- Screening yourself regularly will ensure that any problems are detected early
Risk Factors for Testicular Cancer
- Young men age 15-40
- Testicular cancer in male relatives or breast cancer in female relatives
- A testes that failed to descend into the scrotum in childhood
- Cannabis use
Signs of Testicular Cancer
- Hard pea-sized lump in the front or side of the testicle
- Enlargement of one testicle
- A change in feel of the testicle from spongy to hard
- A change in the contour of a testicle from smooth to lumpy
- Dull pain or “heaviness” in the testicle or scrotum
How to Screen for Testicular Cancer
- You should do this after a warm bath or shower which relaxes the scrotum
- Stand in front of a mirror to check for changes in the appearance of the testicles
- Note that one testicle usually hangs lower and may be larger than the other one but this should not change over time
- Next, feel each testicle separately
- Hold each testicle from behind with the 2nd and 3rd fingers and feel the front and sides with your thumb
- Note the size, shape and texture of the testicle. It should be smooth, spongy and not painful
- Lumps may be found in the vessels and tubes behind the testicle with are not cancer
- If you find any new abnormality, go see your doctor.
Treatment
- Treatment is usually surgical and early disease is usually completely curable
- Treatment of early disease does not usually affect fertility or sexual function
- Treatment of late disease is more difficult and causes more complications
MONTHLY SELF SCREENING CAN PREVENT ADVANCED TESTICULAR CANCER