Testicular Cancer - Myths and Reality

When it comes to testicular cancer, you often hear all kinds of claims. Certain myths can contribute to fuel misconceptions about this cancer. The goal of the blog article Testicular cancer - Myths and Reality is to set some records straight.

Myth - Testicular cancer is the most common form of cancer in men

Reality - The three most common cancers in men are prostate cancer, lung cancer and colon cancer. Testicular cancer is extremely rare. It accounts for about 1% of male cancers, while prostate cancer accounts for 23%.

Myth - It's a cancer that affects older men

Reality - While most cancers pose a higher threat to older people, testicular cancer is at a higher risk in young men aged 15 and over. It generally appears most often in men between the ages of 20 and 39. If you are a male aged 15 or older, learn to examine your testicles regularly.

Myth - Injury to the testicles increases my risk of testicular cancer

Reality - When former Tour de France cyclist Lance Armstong was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 1996, it was largely presumed that years of riding on a bicycle saddle was to blame.

It is a misperception that persists to this day, suggesting that repetitive actions such as cycling, horseback riding, or motorcycling are major contributors, if not the primary cause, of testicular cancer. Years of research has yet to reveal any link between these or any other strenuous physical activities and the risk of testicular cancer.

Myth - Testicular cancer will ruin my sex life

Reality - It is normal to immediately worry about the impact of the disease on your sex life. But be aware that removing one of your testicles has no physical impact on your sexuality, libido, erectile function, or your ability to reach an orgasm. If both testicles need to be removed, testosterone replacement therapy given by injection or skin patch is an effective way to get your libido back to normal.

Myth - Testicular cancer will make me infertile

Reality - It is important to note that this is not the case for most men. In the majority of cases, if a testicle is removed, you will still return to a normal sperm count after treatment. However, if you have to undergo chemotherapy, there is a higher risk of infertility. In this case, banking your sperm before treatment is a good option if you still wish to conceive.

Sex after treatment will make my cancer return

Reality - Sexual activity will not influence your risk of recurrence or spread of the disease.

I'm afraid of passing my cancer on to my partner

Reality - Cancer does not spread to a partner during sexual activity. Cancer is not a contagious disease like a cold or the flu. However, certain treatments, such as chemotherapy, may require you to take certain precautions, such as wearing a condom for a few days (at least 4 days).

Other myths that persist

Fact - You can't get testicular cancer from:

a vasectomy
wearing tight pants
a cell phone in your pocket
a urinary tract infection
an enlarged prostate

If you feel a lump on a testicle or if you feel anything abnormal, you should see a doctor without delay.

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Sources and References
Testicular Cancer Canada
Verywell Health-What causes testicular cancer

ADMINSeptember 25, 2021Comment