Testicular Cancer Awareness
-with Dr. Graham Greene
“We want patients to know they’re not alone, and they’re not facing a life without quality. We help them through this with information, treatment options, and a clear path forward.”
When it comes to testicular cancer, a type of cancer that develops in the male reproductive organs, one surprising fact stands out: it most commonly affects young, healthy men between the ages of 18 and 35. That’s why early awareness and regular self-exams are essential.
Graham Greene, MD, a urologic and urologic oncology physician at Lakeland Regional Health, encourages young men — and those who care for them — to understand the importance of knowing what to look for and when to act.
A Curable Cancer, If Caught Early
Testicular cancer is one of the most curable of all solid tumors, especially when detected early. Symptoms usually include a painless lump or mass in the testicle. Men often falsely assume that if something doesn’t hurt, they don’t need to get it checked. However, if there is anything unusual — a mass, a lump, a swelling — it’s best to make a screening appointment with your healthcare provider.
The great news is that testicular cancer is very treatable. Advances in chemotherapy and treatment have dramatically improved outcomes over the last several decades with patients going on to live full, healthy lives after treatment.
“There’s a lot of hope,” says Dr. Greene. “Lance Armstrong is a well-known example. His testicular cancer had spread, and he still went on to thrive. The Livestrong website has great resources for patients and families.”
Risk Factors: What to Know
While the exact cause of testicular cancer is still unknown, a few risk factors are clear:
- Undescended testicles at birth (even if corrected later)
- A personal history of testicular cancer
- Being a conjoined twin
But it’s important to remember that most young men who develop testicular cancer are otherwise healthy.
The Power of Self-Exams
Unlike some cancers, testicular cancer is often discovered through self-examination. Dr. Greene emphasizes how important it is for young men to get comfortable with this healthy habit — and not to ignore signs just because there’s no pain.
“A painless lump or swelling in the testicle is often the first sign,” Dr. Greene says. “It’s not painful, so many men think it’s nothing. But if something doesn’t seem right—even if it doesn’t hurt—get it checked out.”
That’s why Dr. Greene and others are advocating for more education, starting in high schools. Simple tools like shower hangers in the locker rooms can help teach boys how to do regular self-checks — similar to how young women are encouraged to learn about breast and pelvic health early on.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If something seems off, a doctor can do a quick physical exam followed by a painless testicular ultrasound. These tools are highly accurate in detecting abnormalities. If cancer is confirmed, treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation, depending on the stage.
Even with treatment, most men can still father children. But because treatments may impact fertility, sperm banking is sometimes discussed ahead of time.
“Most of all,” says Dr. Greene, “we want patients to know they’re not alone, and they’re not facing a life without quality. We help them through this with information, treatment options, and a clear path forward.”
The Message is Clear
Don’t wait. Get checked. If something doesn’t seem right, make an appointment with your primary care doctor or a provider you know and trust—not just a walk-in clinic. A thorough physical exam by someone familiar with your medical history can make all the difference in catching concerns early and ensuring you get the right care from the start. For more information, schedule a consultation with a provider at Lakeland Regional Health.
To learn more about our Hollis Cancer Center, visit myLRH.org/HCC.
To schedule an appointment with a primary care provider, call 863.284.5000 or visit myLRH.org/care.
