Testicular cancer is a common cancer in young males between 18 – 35 years .

The testicles are two small oval shaped organs located behind and below the penis in a pouch called the scrotum. Testes produce sperm and the main hormone testosterone.

The cause of testicular cancer is unknown.

Symptoms:

• A painless lump in one of the testes.
• Scrotum may appear swollen.

Other symptoms:

• Backache
• Stomach ache
• Short of breath

Diagnosis & Treatment;

1. A physical examination is needed by your doctor.
2. Tests may need to be carried out such as:
3. Ultrasound of the scrotum and testes.
4. Surgery may be indicated called an Orchidectomy which is removal of the testicle. After surgery, some patients may require radiotherapy, or chemotherapy.
5. Further investigation may be required to out rule further spread of the disease.

Afterwards:

Coming to terms with the fact you had cancer can take quite a while. Also the prospect of becoming infertile is a huge worry. However, the removal of one testicle will not affect your sexual performance or ability to have children once the other testicle is healthy. The remaining testicle will produce more testosterone and sperm to make up for the removal of the other testicle.

Prevention:

Most testicular cancers are curable and easily treated if found early. Men should examine their testes once a month.
The best time is after a warm bath or shower when the scrotal skin is more relaxed.

If you have any concerns call into the Student Health Service or Gp!
Call the national cancer Helpline for more information on self-examination