Testicular Cancer
What should people know about cancer of the testis?
The testes are smooth, oval-shaped male sex glands located behind the penis in a pouch of skin called the scrotum. They produce male hormones and, after sexual maturity, sperm.
Cancer of the testis, or testicular cancer, is relatively rare. It is highly treatable and very often can be cured.
Each year in New York State over 550 men are diagnosed with testicular cancer and over 20 men die from this disease.
Who gets cancer of the testis?
In New York State, men ages 20-39, particularly non-Hispanic White men, are most likely to develop testicular cancer.
What factors increase risk for developing cancer of the testis?
At this time, the causes of testicular cancer are not well understood. However, scientists agree that certain factors increase a person's risk of developing this disease. These risk factors include:
- Medical conditions. Testicular cancer occurs more often in men with certain medical conditions, including undescended testis.
- Family history and genetics. Men who have a father or brother with testicular cancer are at greater risk of developing the disease. Men with certain genetic conditions, such as Down syndrome or Klinefelter's syndrome, are also at higher risk.
- Occupation. Employment in certain industries, including the military, aviation, crude petroleum and natural gas, printing, metal working and leather finishing industries, has been associated with increased risk of cancer of the testis.
What can I do to reduce my chances of getting testicular cancer?
Most of the risk factors for testicular cancer, like age, race and conditions occurring at or before birth, are out of a person's control. However, there are some things a man can do to help reduce the risk of getting testicular cancer:
- Be aware of your family history and discuss any concerns with your health care provider.
- Be aware of workplace health and safety rules and follow them.
- Be aware of the symptoms of testicular cancer. Although testicular cancer can usually be cured at any stage, finding it early may make it easier to treat.
How else can I reduce my risk for cancer?
The following may help reduce the risk of developing cancer:
- Exercise regularly.
- Choose a healthy diet to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Eat more vegetables, fruits and whole grains and eat less red and processed (e.g., bacon, sausage, luncheon meat, hot dogs) meats. These actions may reduce the risk of developing many types of cancer as well as other diseases.
- Do not smoke. If you currently smoke, quit. Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke. For more information on quitting smoking, visit the NYS Smoker's Quitline at www.nysmokefree.com or call 1-866-NY-QUITS.
- Discuss the risks and benefits of medical imaging, such as CT scans, with your health care provider to avoid unnecessary exposure to ionizing radiation. This is particularly important for children.
- Talk with your health care provider about recommended cancer screenings.
