According to medical experts, men can benefit from being aware of certain early warning signs of testicular cancer. We chat to Linda Greeff, the founder of Cancer Buddies.
Can you briefly explain what testicular cancer is?
Testicular cancers are rare and highly curable, even when the cancer has spread beyond the testicle. It usually occurs in young and middle-aged men, the most common age being between 15 and 35 years old. Men who have an undescended testicle are at higher risk of developing testicular cancer than men whose testicles have moved normally down into the scrotum. A swelling in the scrotum is usually the first sign of testicular cancer. A doctor will examine the testicles to feel for any lumps. If any lumps are found, the doctor will perform an ultrasound examination, which uses sound waves to make a picture of the inside of the testicles.
Can I do a self-examination?
Most men discover the cancer themselves, either unintentionally or while doing a testicular self-examination to check for lumps. So yes, you can perform a self test and it will take no longer than five minutes.
Can I tell by just looking at my testicles if I have testicular cancer?
Not at all. A test of the testicles needs to be performed.
What can I expect if I go to the doctor for tests?
You would firstly need to inform your doctor if you are experiencing discomfort of any kind in the area of your testicles or if you are secreting fluid without any reason. Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions, including the following:
- When did you begin experiencing symptoms?
- Are your symptoms continuous or occasional?
- How severe are your symptoms?
- What, if anything, seems to improve your symptoms?
- What, if anything, appears to worsen your symptoms?
The doctor will then test you and again check for lumps or abnormalities during a physical exam.
Is the test covered by most medical aid schemes?
It is not covered by most medical aids. Those that cover it only cover limited things. Youll have to check with your medical aid scheme to see what they do and do not cover.
Do you have stats regarding the number of men that are affected?
Because South Africa does not have a cancer registry, we are very much dependent on outside sources for this information. As it stands in 2011, it was estimated that 15 000 men would be diagnosed with testicular cancer.
Is it hereditary?
It is not hereditary, but the chances are greater if siblings or a father suffered from testicular cancer.
Can I still have kids if I have testicular cancer?
If detected and treated early, the chances of survival and fathering children stands at 95%, even with the loss of one testicle. However, if left untreated for a very long period, the chances do diminish.
Via Destiny Man