-Posting last reviewed by Dr. Lanctin, March 2020
In the U.S., over 8,500 cases of testicular cancer are diagnosed each year. It is highly curable, even if it has spread to other areas of the body at diagnosis. Testicular cancer is generally uncommon; however it is the most common type of cancer in men ages 15-35 years. According to the American Cancer Society, the average age of diagnosis is about age 33. Caucasian men are about 5 times more likely to develop testicular cancer than African American men.
The exact cause of most testicular cancers is not known. But it has been determined that the disease is linked with a number of other conditions, including:
- An undescended testicle
- Family history of testicular cancer
- Certain genetic abnormalities
- Carcinoma in situ of the testicle (a non-invasive form of the disease)
- Having had testicular cancer before
Even if someone has one or more of these conditions, it’s impossible to know for sure how much that contributes to developing the testicular cancer. Also, most boys and men with testicular cancer do not have any of the known risk factors. A great deal of research is being done to learn more about the causes.
So what are the symptoms of testicular cancer? Dr. Henri Lanctin, Prairie Lakes Urologist says that a male should see their health care provider if they develop a lump or heaviness in one of their testis, dull ache in the groin, sudden increase of fluid in the scrotum or pain or discomfort in a testicle. Testicular cancer can also present with back pain or enlargement of or tenderness in the breasts.
If you are concerned about any urological symptom, an appointment can be made with Prairie Lakes Urology Clinic by calling 605-882-7777.
Resources: http://www.testicularcancerawarenessmonth.com/ , https://www.cancer.org/cancer/testicular-cancer.html