HealthInfo Canterbury

Testicular cancer

Testicular cancer is where cells in a testicle become abnormal and grow into a tumour. This usually starts in the cells that develop into sperm.

If not found early, the cancer can spread into lymph nodes and to other parts of your body. This is why it is very important to regularly check your own testicles for any new changes. Changes to look out for include lumps, a change in size, a feeling of heaviness or unevenness in the scrotum, and any discomfort.

Testicular cancer occurs most often in men aged 20 to 40. Some men have a higher risk of developing testicular cancer. These include:

• men with a personal or family history of testicular cancer
• men who had an undescended (not in the scrotum) testis at birth
• some men with infertility
• men with HIV
• men born with hypospadias (an abnormality in the urethra).

  HealthInfo recommends the following pages

• Cancer Council Victoria – Understanding testicular cancer

  This booklet has information about testicular cancer, including symptoms, treatments, and what to expect.

• Cancer Society

  Provides support, information and practical help to patients who have been diagnosed with cancer.

• NHS Choices – What should my testicles look and feel like?

  Information about what your testicles should look and feel like, and how to spot early signs of testicular cancer.

• Testicular Cancer NZ

  Testicular cancer website created by the Prostate Cancer Foundation of New Zealand.

Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Endorsed by clinical director, Urology, Canterbury DHB. Page created May 2016.

Page reference: 223797

Review key: HITSP-26704