TESTICULAR CANCER

 Testicular cancer starts in the testicles — the small glands inside the scrotum that make sperm and male hormones. The good news is that it’s one of the most curable forms of cancer. When found early, treatment success is almost 100%. It most often affects young and middle-aged men, but can occur at any age.

Most men notice the first sign themselves — a small, firm lump or swelling in one testicle that usually doesn’t hurt. Other changes to watch for include:

• A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
• A dull ache in the groin or lower abdomen
• Sudden collection of fluid around a testicle
• Back pain or breast tenderness (in later stages)

Don’t ignore even a painless lump. A simple ultrasound can quickly tell if anything is wrong.

 If a testicular lump is suspected, your doctor will recommend:

• Ultrasound of the testis – a quick, painless scan to look at the structure inside. 
• Blood tests – to check tumour markers like AFP, β-hCG, and LDH. 
• CT scans – if cancer is confirmed, to see if it has spread. 

In most cases, the affected testis is removed surgically (a procedure called radical orchidectomy). This not only treats the cancer but also helps confirm its exact type under the microscope.

Treatment is highly tailored and gentle on the body compared to many other cancers. Options may include:

• Surgery – removal of the affected testis; most men live completely normal lives afterward.
• Chemotherapy or Radiotherapy – used only when necessary, and often for a short duration.
• Surveillance – regular check-ups without further treatment in very early cases.

Advanced centres also offer minimally invasive or robotic procedures for certain stages, allowing faster recovery and less discomfort.

Most men are cured and return to normal life — including work, fitness, and family planning. Fertility is usually preserved, but semen banking before treatment can provide extra reassurance. Regular follow-ups with scans and blood tests help keep track of recovery and catch any recurrence early.