Testicular cancer
Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in men aged between 15 and 45 years. Testicular cancer is a condition where the cells in the testis grow and divide abnormally and a tumour grows in the testis. The testicles are two glands found in the scrotum that produce sperm and hormones.
Signs and symptoms
Signs and symptoms that may occur due to testicular cancer include:
- a change in the size or shape of the testicle
- a pea sized hard lump, most commonly on the side or front of the testicle
- swelling of the testicle or groin area
- a dragging feeling in the testicle, groin or abdomen.
Not all of these will occur and you may not have any pain or discomfort. However, it is important to discuss any changes with your doctor. Many of these changes can be caused by other conditions such as cysts or infection. A knock or blow to the testicles does not cause cancer. Only your doctor can check what the cause is.
Treatment
All testicular cancers can be treated and if discovered early and the right treatment is given, and over 90% of them can be cured. Treatment may be different depending on the type of testicular cancer and whether it has spread to other parts of the body.
Early identification of testicular cancer can lessen the toxic side-effects of the treatments used.
Prevention
There is no evidence of a link between injury or sporting strains, lifestyle (eg. smoking, diet) or sexual activity with testicular cancer.
Testicular cancer has a very good cure rate if it is found and treated early. It is important that young men check their testis each month for any lumps or swellings and, if concerned, should see their doctor straight away.
Help and assistance
For more information on testicular cancer you can talk to:
- your local doctor
- your local sexual health clinic
- Queensland Cancer Fund.
Andrology Australia – Facts about testicular cancer
Testicular Self Examination fact sheet