Testicular Cancer is when cells in a guy’s balls (testicles) grow out of control and form a tumor. It’s actually one of the most curable cancers if caught early. Here’s what you should know:
Who Gets It?
Most common in guys 15-35 years old
Can happen at any age though
White guys get it more often than others
Warning Signs:
A hard lump on your testicle (usually doesn’t hurt)
One ball gets bigger or feels heavier
A dull ache in your groin or lower belly
Your balls might feel tender or swollen
Rarely, your chest might get sore (from hormones)
What Causes It?
Doctors aren’t totally sure, but these things make it more likely:
Having a testicle that didn’t drop as a baby
If your brother or dad had it
Being born with certain health conditions
HIV infection
What to Do If You’re Worried:
Check yourself in the shower – feel for lumps
If you find something, don’t panic – most lumps aren’t cancer
See a doctor right away to get checked
How Doctors Test for It:
They’ll feel your balls first
Might do an ultrasound (like what pregnant women get)
Could take blood tests
Might need to remove the testicle to check (but only if really needed)
Treatment Options:
Surgery to remove the bad testicle (you can get a fake one if you want)
Sometimes radiation or chemo
Most guys do just fine with one testicle
Good News:
Over 95% of cases are cured
You can still have kids and sex normally after treatment
The surgery isn’t too bad
How to Protect Yourself:
Check your balls monthly – it’s easy and takes 30 seconds
See a doctor fast if something feels off
Don’t be embarrassed – doctors see this all the time
Remember: Finding it early makes treatment way easier. If something doesn’t feel right down there, get it checked – it could save your life.
