Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young men around the world, so vember, or Movember in this case, is the perfect time to learn about the signs and symptoms of testicular cancer and to speak to your doctor.
Testicular cancer occurs when cancer cells grow in one or both testicles. These cells begin to change and grow uncontrollably to form a mass or tumor. This is almost always the first sign of testicular cancer.
Although rare, approximately 9,000 men are diagnosed with testicular cancer each year in the US, according to the American Cancer Society, and with simple early detection such as self-exams, treatments are more effective and less aggressive than if the cancer is detected in later stages.
Here's even better news: if detected and treated early, testicular cancer is 99 percent treatable with cure rates in excess of 95 percent. This is why knowledge (and regular exams) is power when it comes to your health!
How To Spot The Warning Sign Of Testicular Cancer And Recognize It Before It Gets Out Of Control!
Testicular cancer hits young
Even with youth by your side, this cancer can straighten its ugly head in a man's early years. If you find a knot, the last thing you should brush off since you are young. (Yes, even if you exercise and eat clean).
"Testicular cancer is most common in young men between the ages of 20 and 40, with the average age at diagnosis being 33," says Dr. James Kelley, D.O., urologist from Dallas, urologist at the Texas Center of Urology. "It is actually the most common malignant disease in men in this age group, although it is important to remember that it can still occur in men at any age." Because of this, it is important to self-examine as you are in your teens.
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The symptoms of testicular cancer and how self-exam can save your life
Mark your calendar for monthly masculinity exams to stay on top of any suspicious changes. "The most common sign of testicular cancer is a painless lump in the testicle." Explains Dr. Kelley. He continues, "Other possible signs and symptoms may include renewed swelling of the testicle, a feeling of 'weight' in the testicle, and rarely pain or dull ache in the testicle."
Any changes in size, shape, or texture must be investigated; You may not feel the mass by yourself, but it could make your testicle very tight.
Monthly self-exams are essential for early detection. "I usually recommend doing a self-exam about once a month, ideally right after you shower, when the testicle skin is more relaxed and the testicles are easier to feel," says Dr. Kelley.
It is incredibly important that you share new insights with your doctor or health care provider as soon as you notice something new that feels different. "If your doctor suspects a mass in the testicle, they'll usually do an ultrasound of the testicles, check blood tests for tumor markers, and refer you to a urologist, who is a surgeon who treats testicular cancer," he adds.
Of course, not all irregularities in your testicles are indicative of cancer, but it's better to play it safe and make an appointment with your doctor right away.
Don't be afraid to speak to your doctor
If your testicles are changing or you just have a question about men's health, don't be shy to speak to your doctor.
"While you may sometimes feel embarrassed to call your doctor (when it comes to your testicles), all you know is that it can literally save your life and you don't have to worry," assures Kelley. Your doctor is there to answer all of your questions and to take any necessary steps if any testicular changes have occurred.
The risk factors of testicular cancer
Even a clean diet and rigorous exercise regimen cannot fight off testicular cancer. In fact, several factors are known to increase your risk of developing testicular cancer. “A personal or family history of testicular cancer (such as that of your brother or father), a history of a testicle that did not fall off completely at birth (an undescended testicle), or men with a history of abnormal cells in the testicle called germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNIS), "says Kelley. But even if you don't fall into any of these categories and notice changes in your testicles, you should always have it checked out.
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Diagnosis and treatment
If doing your monthly checkups reveals an abnormality in one or both testicles, after speaking with your doctor, you will be referred to a urologist who will then order the correct blood tests and scans to determine if the lump is or is present. t cancer.
If it is testicular cancer, it is usually treated first with surgical removal of the tumor. "After the operation, the doctor can check the tissue to find out the exact type of cancer, whether it has spread and how aggressive it is," says Kelley. Depending on the stage of the cancer, your urologist will usually work with a team of other cancer specialists to help you figure out the best plan for the future.
"The good news with all of this is that post-testicular cancer cure rates are excellent (over 95 percent!)," He says. Another reason to be proactive! “The likelihood that the cancer will return is very small, and the likelihood of dying from testicular cancer is even less. Overall, testicular cancer is incredibly treatable, especially if it's detected early! ”Says Kelley.
Reference To Fight Testicular Cancer:
- Check your testicles once a month, preferably during or after you shower.
- If a lump or change in the testicles is noticed, call your doctor right away.
- Don't panic, be proactive. If you check your testicles regularly and suddenly feel a change when it is cancer, the chances of getting treatment and survival quickly are on your side.
If you have been diagnosed with testicular cancer, or have walked the testicular cancer route, finding support during this time is so important. You are not alone - there are support groups and communities like Nuts & Bolts that are there to encourage you and provide you with the tools to fight testicular cancer!
