Testicular Cancer.
Approximately 2000 men each year in the United Kingdom are diagnosed with the most curable form of cancer; Testicular. It is one of the most commonly developing cancers in men however unlike most other cancers, it generally seems to develop in a specific age range in the male population. It tends to affect the younger section of society, predominantly the males aged between 15 and 44. Statistics show that around 90% of all patients diagnosed with Testicular Cancer are below the age of 55 however it is still unclear exactly why this is so.
In most cases of Testicular Cancer, it is either the leydig or the germs cell that mutate. Mutated germ cells develop from cells that produce the gametes therefore the ovaries/testes are involved in nearly all cases.
Factors Affecting The Chances of Developing Testicular Cancer
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Infertility- Infertile men are three times as likely to develop it.
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Smoking- Smokers are twice as likely to develop it.
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Age & Race- Research shows that younger white men are more likely to develop it.
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Family History- If a close relative has been diagnosed with Testicular Cancer at some point in time, you have a higher chance of developing it.
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Height- Surprisingly, your height can also affect your chances of developing this cancer. According the NHS, men who are below 170cm are 30% less likely to develop it compared to men taller than that.
Diagnosis Of Testicular Cancer
It is crucial that you regularly check your testicles if you are a male over the age of 15 for any abnormal bumps or lumps.
Simply palpate the testicles between your fingers, looking for any abnormal lumps. Most testicular lumps are not cancerous however it is recommended that you see your GP and not take the risk. This is so that if it is cancerous, it can be treated as soon as possible however if left untreated, it may possible spread to other areas of the body, sharply reducing the chances of recovery.
Watch this short clip from Embarrassing Bodies (Channel 4) on how to check for any tumours. However please be warned of the nude content.
Testicular Cancer can be easily removed in its early stages therefore it is very important that you report any problems of any sort, straight to your GP.