Facts about testicular cancer
How common is testicular cancer?
Testicular cancer is the most common form of cancer in young men, mostly between the ages of 15 and 45. Incidence has increased four-fold over the last fifty years, with about 2,000 cases a year in the UK.
What causes testicular cancer?
We are still investigating the
causes of testicular cancer and do not know of any treatments that could prevent it. The most important thing is to check your testicles regularly to detect any changes in their shape or size. The most significant risk factor is undescended testis at birth with 10% of patients having a history of this condition. Testicular cancer can have a strong
genetic component, with brothers, fathers or sons of testicular cancer patients having up to a 10-fold increased risk of developing the disease.
How is testicular cancer diagnosed?
Testicular cancer can be diagnosed through regular
self-checking of the normal size and shape of your testicles. When these have altered in some way, it is important to consult with your doctor. Please note that most lumps are benign (non-cancerous) and no operation is necessary.
How is testicular cancer treated?
Testicular cancer can be treated by surgery, by radiotherapy or by
chemotherapy. In some cases these treatments are combined. The most straightforward and safest way of dealing with a cancerous lump is to remove the testicle.
Can a man diagnosed with testicular cancer make a full recovery?
99% of testicular cancers can be cured if caught at an early stage. Even when the
tumour spreads, the cure rate is very high. Treatment may be very intensive, but most patients cured will have no long-term side effects from treatment. A small proportion of patients will become
infertile after chemotherapy treatment. Other side effects of treatment are uncommon but may include damage to the nerve endings, hearing and poor circulation. There may be a slightly increased risk of developing other cancers. The risks of these
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