Testicular Cancer
What is Testicular Cancer
Testicular cancer is cancer that develops in the testicles, a part of the male reproductive system.
Over his lifetime, a man's risk of testicular cancer is roughly 1 in 250. It is most common among males aged 15-40 years, particularly those in their mid-twenties. Testicular cancer has one of the highest cure rates of all cancers: in excess of 90%; essentially 100% if it has not metastasized. Even for the relatively few cases in which malignant cancer has spread widely, chemotherapy offers a cure rate of at least 85% today. Not all lumps on the testicles are tumors, and not all tumors are malignant; there are many other conditions such as Epididymal cysts, Hydatid of Morgagni, and so on which may be painful but are non-cancerous. It should be emphasized however that all unusual lumps or pain in the testicles should be checked by a doctor immediately.
What are the Symptoms of Testicular Cancer
The earliest warning signs of testicular cancer usually include:
- A change in their size or shape.
- Swelling or thickening of the testicles.
- A firm, smooth, painless, slow-growing lump in a testicle.
- A feeling of testicular heaviness.
- Urinary problems.
- Abdominal mass or abdominal pain.
- Persistent coughing, possibly with blood-tinged sputum.
- Shortness of breath.
- Loss of weight or appetite
- Fatigue
- Lower back pain
- Very rarely, infertility.
What are the Causes of Testicular Cancer
It is not known exactly what causes testicular cancer. Some men who develop this type of cancer have been born with an undescended testicle. Some researchers believe this type of cancer is hereditary. It is said that men with fertility problems are more likely to develop benign testicular tumours. There are other possible risk factors such as:
- A sedentary lifestyle
- Early puberty
- Previous mumps
- Testicular injury
- Overexposure to pesticides or radiation
It is a very good idea to go through the process of self-examination at least once per month. If you do not know what to look for, go to your doctor to have him explain to you how to examine yourself. If you do have testicular cancer, the affected testicle will be removed and analysed to see what type of cancer it is. There will also be examinations to see if the other testicle is affected.
Traditional Medical Treatments for Testicular Cancer
Because it is required for diagnosis, surgical removal of a testicle is unavoidable. If cancer is found, a second operation is performed, and these two operations are often enough to cure limited testicular cancer. Very severe cases are treated with chemotherapy as well. Nearly all testicular cancer patients are cured, but they are urged to have frequent follow-up examinations.
Complementaty/Alternative Treatments for Testicular Cancer
Although conventional medicine is highly successful at curing testicular cancer, simply learning that you have cancer can be emotionally traumatic and stressful. Many patients find counselling helpful.