The testis are two oval-shaped sex organs in males and are found in the scrotum. These structures are an important part of the male reproductive system. They produce sperm and testosterone – the hormone that plays a major role in male sexual development.
Although testicular cancer is a relatively rare type of cancer compared to other cancers, it tends to affect younger men; particularly between the ages of 15 and 49 years of age. For reasons that are unclear, Caucasian males have a higher risk of developing testicular cancer in comparison to other ethnic groups.
The most common types of cancer are germ cell tumours and usually respond well to chemotherapy. Other types include Leydig- and Sertoli cell tumours.
The exact cause(s) of testicular cancer are still unknown, but a number of risk factors have been identified which may increase a man’s risk of developing it. These include:
Undescended testis: Men with undescended testis are about three times more likely to develop testicular cancer than those whose testis descend at birth or shortly after.
Family history: Having a close relative with a history of testicular cancer or and undescended testes increases your risk of also developing it. If your father had testicular cancer, you are around four times more likely to develop it and if your brother suffered from it, your risk is about eight times higher than that of someone with no family history of the condition.
Previous testicular cancer: Men who have previously been diagnosed with testicular cancer are between 12 and 18 times more likely to develop cancer again in the other testes.
The treatment for testicular cancer usually includes the surgical removal of the affected testicle with or without the addition of chemotherapy, according to the specific individual’s medical requirements and staging of the condition. Removal of a testes does not usually have a significant affect on fertility or the ability to have sexual intercourse.
Testicular cancer is one or the most treatable types of cancer. Data shows the survival rates for almost all men treated in England and Wales to vary between 99% and 98% after one- and five years of diagnosis, respectively. It is also rare for the condition to return more than five years later.
The number of cases of testicular cancer diagnosed annually in the UK has roughly doubled since the mid-1970’s. It is important to be aware of what feels and is normal for your own body. Get to know your body and see a doctor if you notice any changes or have concerns about any risk factors.
(www.nhs.uk/conditions/testicular-cancer;
Ferri’s Clinical Advisor, Fred F Ferri – 2020)
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