Testicular Cancer: The Facts

Although testicular cancer is rare, nearly 2,000 men are still diagnosed with the disease in the UK each year...

When you’re young you think cancer is an older person’s disease – but testicular cancer is actually the most common type of cancer in men aged 15-44.

The good news is that around 95% of men diagnosed with testicular cancer are now successfully treated. The sooner you realise you have it the more effective the treatment with fewer side effects.

So, it’s really important for young men to be BODY AWARE - and that means regularly checking your tackle. A regular check in the bath or shower, or soon afterwards is all it takes.

If you notice any changes report it straight away to your doctor and he or she will check it out for you.

How To Check Yourself

• Hold your scrotum (the sac that holds the testicles) in the palm of your hand and feel the size and weight of the testicles. One will probably be slightly larger than the other, or hang lower.
• Feel each testicle and roll it between your thumb and finger. It should feel smooth. You'll feel a soft, tender tube toward the back of each testicle. This is normal. It's unusual to develop cancer in both testicles at the same time, so if you're wondering whether a testicle is feeling normal or not, you can compare it with the other.

What Are The Symptoms?

• A hard lump on the front or side of the testicle
• Swelling or enlargement of a testicle
• An increase in firmness of a testicle
• Pain or discomfort in a testicle or in the scrotum
• An unusual difference between one testicle and the other

Other warning signs may include:

• A heavy feeling in the scrotum 
• A dull ache in the lower stomach, groin or scrotum

These symptoms may be caused by other conditions, but if you notice any of them it’s better to see your doctor as soon as you can.

What Causes Testicular Cancer?

No one knows, but some people have a higher risk of developing the disease.

You are more at risk if:

• A close family member has been diagnosed with the disease.
• You’re white. White men are more likely to develop testicular cancer than black or Asian men.
• One or both of your testicles hasn't descended by the age of seven or so.

Even if you meet these risk factors, it doesn't necessarily mean that you will get testicular cancer.

Where Can I Find More Information & Help?

Everyman Website - Everyman is a leading charity for information and research into prostate testicular cancer so they have lots of useful info on their website.

Last modified: 14/05/2010 16:30:17