A Public Service of Mark Kantrowitz

Testicular Cancer

 

This site provides useful information about testicular cancer and reviews my personal experience with testicular cancer.

 What is Testicular Cancer?
 Risk Factors
 Detection
 Diagnosis
 Staging
 Staging Calculator
 Treatment
 Causes
 Checklist
 Costs
 Cancer Jokes
 Related Sites
 TC Books

 Cancer Scholarships

 My Chronology

 Disclaimer

Testicular cancer is the most common form of cancer among males age 15 to 44. After motor vehicle accidents and suicide, cancer is the leading cause of death in this age group, followed by homicide, heart disease, and HIV. Testicular cancer is known as the young man's cancer.

Early detection is the key to survival. Testicular cancer has a very fast onset since the tumors can be very aggressive. When the cancer is confined to the testicles, there is often no pain. By the time pain develops, it is often a sign that the cancer has already spread. Survival rates increase significantly if treatment has begun before the cancer has a chance to metastasize.

Upon reaching puberty, all men should conduct testicular self-exams at least monthly and preferably every time they shower. The purpose of a testicular self-exam is to familiarize yourself with the size, shape and texture of your testicles. If you notice any change, especially a lump, it is imperative that you see your doctor immediately. Diagnosis is non-invasive, and involves using ultrasound to look at the density, size and shape of the testicles and other masses in the scrotum.

 
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