EVERYTHING YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT TESTICULAR CANCER

Globally, testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young men, which is why September, or in this case, “September,” is the perfect time to get educated on the signs and symptoms of testicular cancer and when to talk to your doctor. Though more common in older males, any man with a testicle mass- either cancerous or not- may find it the first sign of testicular cancer.

What’s important to know is that about 9,000 men in the U.S. are diagnosed with testicular cancer each year — and as easy as self-examination, treatments are more effective when left to onset rather than later stage diagnosis. The better news is that testicular cancer can be cured in 99 percent of cases if treated early. Here are also some other statistics to look out for: Regular examinations are important for your health.

Here is how to determine if you are suffering from testicular cancer immediately.

The three risk factors of this condition

Rather than having this cancer come back later in life, men should be vigilant in checking for lumps at a young age. Men can still be susceptible to these cancers regardless of their fitness level and clean eating.

“Testicular cancer is most common in young men ages 20 to 40, with the average age at diagnosis being 33. It is actually the most common malignancy in men in this age group,” says Dr. James Kelley, D.O., a urologist at the Texas Center of Urology. “It is important to remember that it can still occur in men at any age,” he says. That’s why it’s important to perform self-exams as early as your teen years.

Schedule a monthly testicular exam to keep tabs on any unusual changes in your body. “Painless lump” is a sign of testicular cancer, according to Dr. Kelley. He continues, “Other possible signs and symptoms can include swelling in the testicle, feeling “weight” in the testicle, and rarely, pain or dull ache in the testicle.”

It’s important to immediately bring your doctor or healthcare provider any new findings of a possible health issue. It’s also helpful to speak with your doctor about any changes in your body, such as if you find lumps or abnormalities. Early conversations can help expedite the situation and prevent future problems.

Here’s What To Expect When Talking About Testicular Cancer With Your Doctor

If you have any changes in your testicles or a question about male health, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor.

Kelley assures. Your doctor is there to answer any questions you may have and take all proper steps necessary if changes in your testicles have occurred. They will assess your medical history and initiate testing if necessary.

Risk factors for testicular cancer are outlined in Kelley’s article. If there is an unexplained change within the testicle, be sure to get it checked out. Kelley says having a hereditary risk of such cancer (as mentioned in your brother or father), a newborn with an undescended testicle, or having GCNIS is important aspects that should never be ignored.

The Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Cancer

You should visit your doctor when a lump in the large or small testicles is detected. With their help, they will order the proper blood tests to determine if it’s cancer or not.

If testicular cancer has been detected, it is typically removed surgically by your healthcare provider. “After the surgery, the doctor can review the tissue to learn of the exact type of cancer, if it has spread further, and how aggressive it is,” Kelley says. Depending on the cancer stage, your urologist will typically work with a team of other specialists that helps determine the best plan for you.

“The good news in all of this is that after being treated for testicular cancer, the cure rates are excellent (greater than 95 percent!),” he says. Again, another reason to be proactive! “The chances of cancer coming back are very low, and the chances of dying from testicular cancer are even lower; Overall, testicular cancer is incredibly treatable, especially when caught early!” Kelley says.

Conclusion

Call your doctor if a lump or change in the testicles is detected. If you’ve been paying attention to the shape of your balls and suddenly notice a change, it’s likely cancer.

If you have been diagnosed with testicular cancer, find support available for others who have walked your path because there are organizations to help you.