Testicular Cancer
Testicular cancer is one of the less common cancers in the UK, and only counts for 1% of all cancers that occur in men.
However, unlike most cancers, testicular cancer tends to be more common in younger men - mostly affecting those aged 15 to 49. While it is unknown why exactly, studies have found that testicular cancer rates have near enough doubled since the mid 1970s. This is why it is so important to know the signs and raise awareness!
Typically, testicular cancer only affects one testicle rather than both, although it can sometimes affect both
+ A lump or swelling in your testicle
+ An ache or pain in your testicle or scrotum
+ A heavy, firm or hard feeling in your scrotum
+ Your testicle getting bigger
+ Weight loss
You might also...
+ Feel an ache or pain in your back or lower tummy
+ Develop a cough
+ Develop difficulty breathing or swallowing
+ Develop a sore or swollen chest
+ Lose weight without trying
These symptoms are often caused by other conditions. However, it is important to have them checked by your GP who might want to arrange tests or provide a referral to a specialist.
CLICK HERE to follow a step by step guide on how to check your testicles for a lump!
Have you been diagnosed with testicular
or any other kind of cancer?
Risk Factors and Causes
The exact causes of testicular cancer are not always known. However, you might be more likely to get it if you...
+ You have or had undescended testicles
+ You have a brother or father who has previously had testicular cancer
+ You have HIV or AIDS
+ You have had testicular cancer before
+ You have or had a condition called hypospadias
Symptoms
Treatments
Treatment for testicular cancer is dependent on the size and type of testicular cancer, your general health, and whether or not it has spread.
It will usually include surgery to remove the testicle (you will usually be given the choice to have an artificial testicle replacement). This may be your only treatment or you may also have chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
You may also have surgery to remove lymph nodes in your tummy if your cancer has (or might have) spread to them.
There are also many charities and support groups dedicated to helping you navigate through your cancer journey. We as Sam's Diamonds provide social media as well as in person support, information, meet-ups and much more! Click here to become a Diamond.
Cites Sources
“Causes of testicular cancer.” NHS, https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/testicular-cancer/causes/.
“Symptoms of testicular cancer.” NHS, https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/testicular-cancer/symptoms/.
“Treatment for testicular cancer.” NHS, https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/testicular-cancer/treatment/.
“What is testicular cancer?” NHS, https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/testicular-cancer/what-is-testicular-cancer/.