Testicular Cancer
The Stats
What is testicular cancer?
Cancer that develops in a testicle is called testicular cancer. The term “cancer” refers to a condition in which the regulation of cell growth is lost and cells grow uncontrollably. Most cells in the body are constantly dividing, maturing and then dying in a tightly controlled process. Unlike normal cells, the growth of cancer cells is no longer well regulated. Instead of dying, as they should, cancer cells outlive normal cells and continue to form new, abnormal cells. Often, only one testicle is affected and, if left untreated, it may spread throughout the body making early diagnosis crucial.
Who gets testicular cancer?
It largely affects men aged 25-34, but is the most common cancer in men aged 15-44. Certain types of testicular cancer may occur in younger children or older men.
Risk of testicular cancer
Men in the following categories could have a higher risk of developing testicular cancer:
What are the signs and symptoms of testicular cancer?
Testicular cancer may cause a variety of signs and symptoms, but may also have none. Symptoms that men should look out for include:
If you suffer from any of the symptoms listed you should see your GP immediately. Most lumps are not cancerous but it is important to get them checked out by your doctor to be sure – early diagnosis could mean the difference between life and death. Remember most testicular cancers are curable. If they are found early, they can be treated very easily.
To find out more about testicular cancer contact the Irish Cancer Society’s National Cancer Helpline 1800 200 700 or visit www.cancer.ie
Testicular cancer is the most common form of cancer in men aged 15-44 (after skin cancer)
The latest figures for Ireland show that almost 150 men on average are affected by testicular cancer each year. The actual number of cases has reached 142 in 2009 vs. 69 in 1994.
What is testicular cancer?
Cancer that develops in a testicle is called testicular cancer. The term “cancer” refers to a condition in which the regulation of cell growth is lost and cells grow uncontrollably. Most cells in the body are constantly dividing, maturing and then dying in a tightly controlled process. Unlike normal cells, the growth of cancer cells is no longer well regulated. Instead of dying, as they should, cancer cells outlive normal cells and continue to form new, abnormal cells. Often, only one testicle is affected and, if left untreated, it may spread throughout the body making early diagnosis crucial.
Who gets testicular cancer?
It largely affects men aged 25-34, but is the most common cancer in men aged 15-44. Certain types of testicular cancer may occur in younger children or older men.
Risk of testicular cancer
Men in the following categories could have a higher risk of developing testicular cancer:
those aged between 15 and 44
those with uncorrected, undescended testicles as an infant or young child
those with a family history of testicular cancer
those who are Caucasian
those who have had testicular cancer before
What are the signs and symptoms of testicular cancer?
Testicular cancer may cause a variety of signs and symptoms, but may also have none. Symptoms that men should look out for include:
a small, painless lump in either testicle (the most common symptom)
any enlargement of the testicle
a feeling of heaviness in the testicle or groin
a dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin
pain in the testicle or scrotum
a change in the way a testicle feels
growth or tenderness of the upper chest
a sudden collection of fluid in the scrotum
All men between 15 and 44 should become familiar with the shape and feel of their testicles and perform regular self-checks to detect any abnormalities. If you suffer from any of the symptoms listed you should see your GP immediately. Most lumps are not cancerous but it is important to get them checked out by your doctor to be sure – early diagnosis could mean the difference between life and death. Remember most testicular cancers are curable. If they are found early, they can be treated very easily.
To find out more about testicular cancer contact the Irish Cancer Society’s National Cancer Helpline 1800 200 700 or visit www.cancer.ie
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