By understanding the risks, recognizing the symptoms, and seeking prompt medical attention, men of all ages can take proactive steps to catch testicular cancer in its early stages.
Testicular cancer arises when cancer cells develop in one of the testicles, typically originating when germ cells display abnormal growth patterns. If germ cells become cancerous, they multiply, forming a mass of cells called tumors that can metastasize quickly, meaning that they spread to other parts of the body through blood and lymph vessels, forming new tumors. Common areas for metastasis include the abdomen, liver, lungs, bones, and brain. Tumors can double in size in just 10 to 30 days, making early detection crucial.
Early screening and detection
Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes for testicular cancer. When caught early, the disease is highly curable, with a five-year survival rate of 95%. Unfortunately, about half of men with testicular cancer delay seeking treatment until the cancer has spread beyond the testicles to other locations in the body.
Performing a monthly self-exam is an effective method to catch early signs of this cancer. This quick and private exam, taking less than 5 minutes, can be a life-saving habit.
Recognizing symptoms
Testicular cancer most commonly affects males between the ages of 15 and 44; the highest rate of occurrence is in men ages 20 to 40 years old. Statistically, 1 in 250 males will be diagnosed with testicular cancer at some point in their lifetime. Despite this, it is seldom addressed during yearly physicals.
Be aware of the following symptoms, which may be indicators of testicular cancer:
- A painless lump of any size or swelling in either testicle.
- Enlargement of the testicle, change in shape, size, how the testicle feels, or any irregularities.
- Pain or discomfort in the scrotum or testicle
- A dull ache or sense of pressure in the lower abdomen or back
- A feeling of heaviness or fullness in the scrotum
- Enlargement or tenderness of the breasts due to elevated hormone levels
The stigma surrounding urogenital health frequently hinders men from seeking medical care for symptoms associated with testicular cancer. Discussing testicular cancer openly with young men and encouraging them to report any changes in their bodies can lead to earlier diagnoses and better outcomes. Promoting open conversations about this topic is crucial for saving lives.
Treatment options for testicular cancer
Treatment for testicular cancer may involve radical orchiectomy (removal of the diseased testicle), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and Retroperitoneal Lymph Node Dissection (RPLND). Each treatment has potential side effects:
- Orchiectomy: Loss of testicle and lowered testosterone
- Chemotherapy: Neuropathy (Nerve damage that causes weakness, numbness and pain in the hands and feet). Cisplatin and other platinum-based treatments can cause hearing loss (Cisplatin-induced ototoxicity)
- Radiation Therapy: Fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, stomach ulcers, and complications related to fertility and sexual function
- Retroperitoneal Lymph Node Dissection (RPLND): A major abdominal surgery with risks including significant blood loss, infection, damage to adjacent organs, respiratory issues, and complications related to fertility and sexual function
Due to the serious nature of RPLND, which is needed when testicular cancer has spread to the lymph nodes and retroperitoneum (metastasis), early diagnosis and treatment are essential, underscoring the importance of early detection and treatment.
By understanding the risks, recognizing the symptoms, and seeking prompt medical attention, men of all ages can take proactive steps to catch this disease in its early stages. Open conversations and awareness can ultimately save lives and ensure the best possible outcomes for those affected by testicular cancer.
