Understanding and Fighting Testicular Cancer
Essential Information and the Importance of Self-Examination
Understanding Testicular Cancer
Testicular cancer is a relatively rare but significant form of cancer that primarily affects young adults and teenage males. It is more common between the ages of 20 and 34, and although its exact causes are unknown, some risk factors include having an undescended testicle, a family history of testicular cancer, and being of Caucasian race. Testicular cancer begins when germ cells in the testicle undergo DNA changes, leading to uncontrolled growth and the formation of a tumor mass.
Diagnosis and Treatment
The diagnosis of testicular cancer often begins with the identification of a painless lump or swelling in the testicles. Other symptoms may include pain or heaviness in the testicle or lower abdomen. For diagnosis, blood tests can be used to detect tumor markers, and imaging techniques such as CT scans, X-rays, and MRIs can assess the extent of cancer. Treatments vary depending on the type and stage of the tumor but may include surgery (such as radical orchiectomy and retroperitoneal lymph node dissection), radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
Survival and Prognosis
The prognosis for testicular cancer is generally positive, with a 5-year relative survival rate of over 95%. This high rate is due to advances in treatments, especially for advanced forms of the disease. However, early diagnosis is essential to optimize the chances of recovery.
The Importance of Self-Examination
Regular self-examination of the testicles is a preventive measure that can help with early diagnosis. Although there is not unanimous consensus on the effectiveness of this practice in reducing the mortality rate for testicular cancer, becoming familiar with the normal consistency of one’s testicles can help identify any anomalies early. In case of changes that persist for more than two weeks, a medical visit is recommended.