Testicular cancer on the rise
NOVEMBER is recognised as International Men’s Month, focusing on men’s health – physically and mentally.
Men are perceived as often not sharing emotions and issues affecting their health as it is deemed “unmanly”. Yet testicular cancer is prevalent – and is increasing in young men under 30.
Devon Hunter, 25, was recently diagnosed with testicular cancer. Due to his condition, his fiancée, Jordan Lishman, spoke on his behalf.
“Jordan was diagnosed with testicular cancer two months ago. The signs were visible, but he had to wait a month for medical aid to activate.
“The anticipation and waiting has been tiresome and he is glad the operation is happening this week.
“Financially, it’s taxing as medical aid doesn’t cover everything. He was required to pay for check-ups. If there is any more cancer found after the removal, he’ll have to pay for chemotherapy. The operation cost R25 000 – and combined with the month of anticipation, it was playing on his mind.
“He was in denial and didn’t want to tell anybody. I only found out a few weeks ago because he didn’t want to admit it to himself.
“He had lumps in his one testicle and it led to a suicide attempt. He asked the doctors about the lumps and they did a full biopsy and diagnosed stage 1 cancer.
“My advice to young men is to check for any lumps on the testicles and get them tested immediately.”
Affinity Health focuses on providing health care and this includes catering for prostate cancer.
“Prostate cancer is one of the most common types. Many prostate cancers are slow-growing and limited to the prostate gland, where they may not cause significant harm. While some prostate cancers grow slowly and require little or no treatment, others are aggressive and spread rapidly.”
Risk is higher in older men, but factors such as family history, race and diet with high fat content are relevant.
The early signs of prostate cancer include unexplained weight loss, urine with blood and erectile dysfunction.
Race is a major risk factor for prostate cancer, with black African men having a 60% increased risk.
“It is greatly recommended that men of African origin screen from the age of 40, and others from 45. Early detection is key and those with a family history should be screened often,” said Malcolm Anthony, the chief executive at Urology Hospital.