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Cancer of the testicles accounts for only about 1 percent of all cancers in men. In fact, according to the American Cancer Society, a man's lifetime risk of testicular cancer is low, 1 in 270, and because treatment is so successful, a man's risk of dying from it is only 1 in 5,000. About 90 percent of testicular cancers occur to men between the ages of 20 and 54, and like all cancers, early detection results is the highest cure rates. A monthly testicular self-exam is a good way to notice any changes that occur.
Causes
Although specific causes of testicular cancer are unknown, many risk factors are known. Men with uncorrected, undescended testicles are more at risk of developing testicular cancer. A family history of testicular cancer also puts you at greater risk, as does an injury to the scrotum or to a testicle. Testicular cancer is five times more common among men with European heritage than men with African heritage.
Testicular Self-Exam
The Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong beat testicular cancer, but he ignored symptoms for a long time and nearly died from it. One way to ensure the best possible outcome for yourself is to notice changes early by doing a monthly testicular self-exam.
Check yourself right after a hot shower, when your skin is relaxed. The American Cancer Society suggests that you examine each testicle separately, using both hands for each. You hold the testicle, between your thumbs and fingers, rolling it gently between your fingers. The goal is to notice any hard lumps, bumps, or any changes to the testicle.
Warning Signs of Testicular Cancer
In the early stages, testicular cancer may have no symptoms. When there are symptoms, they can include a small, painless lump in a testicle; an enlarged testicle; a feeling of heaviness in the testicle or groin; pain in the testicle; a change in the way the testicle feels; enlarged male breasts and nipples; or blood or fluid that accumulates suddenly in the scrotum.
Considerations
There are certain lumps and bumps that are not cancer. For example, the epididymis is a rope-like structure on the top and back of each testicle and is not an abnormal lump. Other men can feel certain prominent veins. Part of the goal is to become familiar with what's normal for you, so you notice any changes. If you are unsure, however, it's best to consult your health-care provider. Likewise, if you do notice any lumps, swelling or other changes, it does not necessarily mean you have cancer, but you must be checked by your health-care provider.
If detected and treated early, testicular cancer is one of the most curable cancers.
Testicular cancer almost always occurs in only one testicle, and the other testicle is all that is needed for full sexual function. Routine testicular self-exams are important, but they cannot substitute for a health care provider's examination. That person should examine your testicles when you have a physical exam. You can also ask him to teach you the correct way to do a TSE.
