Raising Awareness About Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer is the most common cancer affecting males between the ages of 15 and 491, impacting approximately 1 in 250 males2. The average age of men diagnosed with testicular cancer is 332.

Testicular cancer occurs when one of the many kinds of testicular cells multiply uncontrollably, forming a mass in one or both testicles1. The most common cancer signs and symptoms in the testicles and scrotum include lumps, swelling and pain, although cancer is only one of the possible causes of these types of testicular symptoms1.

While testicular cancer cannot be prevented, regular testicular self-examinations are vital to become familiar with the normal size and shape of the testicles, making it easier to tell if something feels different or abnormal in the future1. Should there be any noticeable hard lumps or swelling, or any changes in size, shape or consistency of either testicle, men should see their doctor as soon as possible. Testicular cancer is curable and can be treated successfully in 95% of cases. If treated early, the cure rate rises to 98%3.

Many young men are unaware of testicular cancer or the physical changes that may occur when they develop the disease. Young teens and men often don’t consider cancer as something that could affect them.

“Testicular cancer is a disease of young men. Many times, our invincibility during youth makes us believe that health screening is not important. As a young person who knows the value of an early diagnosis and early treatment, I want to make it my mission to create awareness and comfort in screening for men’s health issues,” says Michele Vanzaghi, a 30-year-old medical doctor who was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2020. Vanzaghi found a small lump on his left testicle. Given his medical background, he knew he had to have it seen to. He made an appointment to see his urologist the very next day.

“Make yourself vulnerable and go for the examination,” he advises those who might find a lump or see a change in their testicles.

He says that early detection and screening through awareness campaigns and education is vital and reduces the stigma around the disease. “This saved my life, and I would like to help save the lives of many other young men with what I learnt,” he says. “Check your balls, and make it part of your daily life”.

The Hollard Daredevil Run is an annual event that informs the uninformed about prostate and testicular cancer and sees thousands of men running 5km dressed only in purple speedos. This year, the Hollard Daredevil Run is taking place on Friday, 1 November at Zoo Lake in Johannesburg, with runs also taking place in every province nationally. Go to Daredevil Run on Facebook to see where these satellite runs will be happening.

For more information about testicular cancer and how to do a self-examination, go to https://cansa.org.za/how-to-do-a-testicular-self-examination/