Darrick Robles 3 facts about testicular cancer
- Testicular cancer is most common in men between the ages of 25 and 45.
- The chances of recovery are very good if the cancer is detected early.
- You should regularly examine your testicles yourself to spot possible signs at an early stage.
1. What is the function of the testicles?
The testicles have two basic functions. First, they are responsible for the production of sperm . Second, they are involved in the production of the male hormone testosterone. This contributes to the development of male sexual characteristics such as a deep voice and facial hair.
2. How common is testicular cancer?
Testicular cancer is relatively rare, accounting for around 1.6 percent of all cancers. According to the RKI (Robert Koch Institute), 4,070 men are newly diagnosed with testicular cancer in Germany every year. In young men between the ages of 25 and 45, however, testicular cancer is the most common tumor disease, accounting for 20 to 30 percent of all cancer cases. The average age of those affected is 38 years.
Unlike prostate cancer , the risk of testicular cancer decreases with age.
3. What are the risk factors?
Although the exact cause is not known, there are factors that can increase the risk, such as: B:
Undescended testicles: “The risk of disease is particularly high in men who had undescended testicles in childhood,” explains Dr. Rhianna McClymont, GP at Med-Healths.
Family predisposition: “Even men whose closest relatives, such as their father or brother, already have testicular cancer have an increased risk,” explains Dr. McClymont.
Twins: “There may be an increased risk in twins, especially if they are two boys.”
Height: “Men who are taller than average are also more at risk.”
4. How do I recognize testicular cancer symptoms?
Most men’s testicles are roughly the same size, with one usually being slightly larger than the other and one hanging lower than the other.
The testicles should feel smooth but not hard, and there should be no lumps or bumps. You can feel a soft tube-like organ called the epididymis (which transports and stores sperm from the testicles) at the back of each testicle.
Common symptoms of testicular cancer are:
- a lump in or on the testicle
- a change in the size or shape of the testicles
- a dull or aching pain
- a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
However, there are other reasons why pain in the testicles can occur, such as: B. an injury, inflammation or cysts.
Testicular cancer is rare, but the chances of recovery are very good if the symptoms are recognized early. Therefore, you should have any of the above signs examined by a doctor.
5. How is testicular cancer diagnosed?
If you have a doctor examine you, the first step is always a detailed anamnesis interview. Here you should describe all complaints and also have the opportunity to ask your doctor questions. This is followed by a palpation: In many cases, this is sufficient to determine whether it is a tumor.
As a rule, an ultrasound examination of the testicles and blood tests clarify the extent to which there is actually a tissue change in the testicles.
6. Can I feel testicular cancer myself?
You should feel the testicle regularly to get a feel for what is normal so you can better spot any changes.
Urologists recommend all boys and men over the age of 14 to regularly examine their testicles themselves, as testicular cancer is almost always curable if caught early.
It is best to feel the testicles while standing under a warm shower or after a warm bath, because this relaxes the skin of the scrotum.
Holding the scrotum in the palm of your hand, feel each testicle with your fingers and thumb.
Pay attention to:
- lumps or swellings
- anything unusual
- Differences between the two testicles (it’s normal for them to be different, but watch out for new changes).
If you notice any of these changes, you should talk to your doctor as soon as possible.
7. How is testicular cancer treated?
Treatment depends on the individual case and the stage of the cancer. Surgery is usually required. Usually only one testicle is affected, which is then usually removed (orchiectomy).
But that doesn’t mean men need to worry about their sexual performance. “The other testicle normally produces an adequate amount of the male sex hormone testosterone. Therefore, sexuality is usually not affected, ”explains Dr. McClymont, “and also the fertility is preserved .”
“Some cases of testicular cancer require chemotherapy in addition to surgery , which may affect fertility. Many patients who want to have children therefore have their sperm preserved before treatment. In this way, artificial insemination can be carried out later,” she explains.
In any case, the most important thing is early detection. Feel your testicles regularly and contact your doctor if there are any changes.
