November, or Movember, has been men’s health focused for the last 20 years as men throw away razors to raise awareness around men’s health issues. Testicular cancer is certainly one of the focuses during this month and many people might be surprised about who this cancer affects most often.
Testicular cancer is most common among white males and least common in men of African or Asian background. Overall, testicular cancer is rare but is the most common form of cancer in men between the ages of 20 and 34. Right now, over 860,000 men are living with or have experienced testicular cancer.
In honor of Movember, let’s take a look at the top five things you need to know about testicular cancer.
More than 90% of testicular cancer begins in germ cells
These aren’t the “germs” you might be thinking of, but cells that create sperm inside the testes. The key types of germ cell tumors in the testicles are seminomas and non-seminoma tumors.
Most testicular cancer cases include both types of tumor cells. Mixed cell tumors are treated as non-seminomas and can spread quickly. Seminoma cells spread more slowly.
Germ cell tumors occur most often in men between 18 and their early 30s. However, 8% of all cases are diagnosed in men over 56. If you have a family history of testicular cancer, an undescended testicle (AKA cryptorchidism) or are a white male, you may be at an increased risk of germ cell tumor formation.
Most testicular cancer cases are discovered during self exams
For men, self exams are as simple as checking the testicles for lumps, swelling or enlarged lymph nodes. This is easiest to do when showering or bathing. If you detect an abnormality, monitor it for a few days before contacting your physician.
Alternatively, physician exams of the testicles may include diagnostic tests such as ultrasounds, CT scans or blood tests to investigate testicular cancer symptoms. These tests will help trace the symptom to its root and, if cancer is present, determine the size and stage of the tumor.
Many men delay reporting symptoms to their doctor
The American Cancer Society estimates that 9,130 men will be diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2023. It’s estimated that 470 of these men may die from testicular cancer related complications.
While testicular cancer’s survival rate is exceedingly high, it’s crucial that you report any of the following symptoms to your doctor promptly.
- A change in the size or shape of one or both testes or painless swelling
- Pain or tenderness in the testicle or a dull ache
- A heavy feeling in the scrotum
- A dull pressure or pain in the lower back, belly and/or groin
Nearly all testicular cancer cases are treated surgically
Through a procedure called radical inguinal orchiectomy, surgeons remove the testicle containing the cancer. After a radical inguinal orchiectomy, urologists recommend watchful waiting and regular checkups, possibly recommending chemotherapy or radiation therapy to destroy any remaining cancer cells.
When caught early, as most testicular cancers are, the disease is extremely treatable. The five-year relative survival rate for testicular cancer at all SEER (Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results) stages combined is 95.2%, as supported by research from the National Cancer Institute.
You’re not alone
Men all over the nation face testicular cancer, undergo testicular cancer surgeries and successfully recover. National movements like Movember feature personalized support from experienced guides. Whether you’re supporting a loved one or taking your own health into consideration, there’s a vast community of men and women readily available to help you in your journey.
The path forward starts with you.
Take your first steps at Arkansas Urology and receive advanced treatment for testicular cancer.
Arkansas Urology strives to provide each and every patient with nondiscriminatory, life-changing care. For more information on access, visit our FAQ section.
Ready to schedule an appointment? Contact us today or book your appointment online. We look forward to seeing you soon.
