Tips on detecting testicular cancer

Cancer. The mere word strikes fear in most of us.  And it seems that occurrence of the deadly disease can strike any age. We’ve seen reports of women detecting breast cancer as early as their late twenties and now many physicians are recommending screening exams for prostate cancer as early as age 40 for men.

University Medical Center Affiliated Physician, Dr James Peyton, Oncologist, helps men to educate themselves about testicular cancer – a disease than can also affect young boys.

The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that yearly about 7,400 new cases of testicular cancer were diagnosed in the United States.  And although it’s a treatable disease, it will kill an estimated 300 men this year.

The testicles contain several types of cells, each of which may develop into one or more types of cancer.  Testicular cancer may be found at an early stage.

Signs and Symptoms 

According to the American Cancer Society, in 90 percent of cases men have a painless or uncomfortable lump on a testicle, or they may notice testicular enlargement or swelling.  Men with testicular cancer often report a sensation of heaviness or aching in the lower abdomen or scrotum.

In rare cases, some men may notice breast tenderness or breast growth.  Even when testicular cancer has spread to other organs, only about one man in four may experience symptoms related to this spreading prior to diagnosis.  Lower back pain is a frequent symptom of later-stage testicle cancer.  If the cancer advances and spreads to the lungs, symptoms including shortness of breath, chest pain, cough or bloody sputum may develop. In some men, testicular cancer has no symptoms and is found during medical testing for other conditions.

Most doctors agree that examination of the testicles is an important part of a general examination.

Dr Peyton emphasises, "If any of the signs and symptoms listed above are present, it’s important to discuss them with your doctor immediately."

He further states, "The sooner you receive an accurate diagnosis, the sooner you can start treatment."

(Source: University Medical Center: February 2009)