Balls

Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in men aged 18-35 years. The number of men diagnosed with testicular cancer has grown by approximately 34% over the past decade, but the reason for this is not known. The good news is testicular cancer is highly curable when found early and treated promptly.

What is testicular cancer?
Cancer that develops in a testicle is called testicular cancer. Often, only one testicle is affected and testicular cancer is more commonly found in the right testicle than the left testicle. If left untreated it may spread throughout the body.

Who gets testicular cancer?
It mainly occurs in men aged 18 to 35, but can occur any time after the age of 15. Certain types of testicular cancer may occur in younger children or older men.

Risk of testicular cancer
Males who may be at risk of testicular cancer include: those with uncorrected, undescended testicles as an infant or young child; those with a family history of testicular cancer; those with an identical twin with testicular cancer; and those who have had certain viral infections such as mumps.

What are the signs and symptoms of testicular cancer?
Testicular cancer may cause a variety of signs and symptoms, but may also have no symptoms.
Symptoms that men should watch for include:

- a small, painless lump in either testicle (the most common symptom);

- any enlargement of the testicle;

- a feeling of heaviness in the testicle or groin;

- a dull ache in the lower abdomen or in the groin;

- pain in the testicle or scrotum;

- a change in the way a testicle feels;

- enlargement or tenderness of male breasts or nipples;

- or blood in the semen.

All men between 18 and 35 should become familiar with the shape and feel of their testicles and perform regular self tests to detect abnormalities. If you suffer from any of the symptoms listed you should see your doctor. Find out more about testicular cancer at the[Association For International Cancer Research]