Understanding Prostate Cancer and Testicular Cancer

1. Understanding Prostate Cancer and Testicular Cancer Cancer affecting the male reproductive system can be a serious health concern. Among the most common types are Prostate cancer and testicular cancer. Although both originate in the male reproductive organs, they differ significantly in terms of age of onset, symptoms, risk factors, and treatment approaches. Understanding both types of cancer can aid in early detection, improve outcomes, and save lives. What is Prostate Cancer? Prostate cancer develops in the prostate gland—a small, walnut-shaped gland located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum in males. The prostate is responsible for producing seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. Causes and Risk Factors While the exact cause of prostate cancer is unknown, several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing the disease: •Age: Risk increases significantly after age 50. •Family history: A family history of prostate or breast cancer can raise your risk. •Race: African American men are more likely to develop and die from prostate cancer. •Diet: A high-fat diet and obesity may increase risk. Symptoms Early-stage prostate cancer may not present any symptoms. As the cancer progresses, symptoms may include: •Difficulty urinating •Frequent urination, especially at night •Weak or interrupted urine flow •Painful urination or ejaculation

2. •Blood in urine or semen •Pelvic discomfort Diagnosis Prostate cancer is often detected during routine screening. Common diagnostic tests include: •Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: Measures PSA levels in the blood. Elevated levels may indicate cancer. •Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A doctor feels the prostate through the rectum to detect abnormalities. •Biopsy: If cancer is suspected, a tissue sample may be taken for lab analysis. Treatment Options Treatment depends on the stage and aggressiveness of the cancer, as well as the patient’s age and overall health: •Active Surveillance: Monitoring for slow-growing cancer. •Surgery (Prostatectomy): Removal of the prostate gland. •Radiation Therapy: External beam or brachytherapy. •Hormone Therapy: Reduces testosterone that fuels cancer growth. •Chemotherapy: Used in advanced stages. What is Testicular Cancer? Testicular cancer originates in the testicles, the male reproductive glands that produce sperm and testosterone. It is less common than prostate cancer but tends to affect younger men. Causes and Risk Factors The exact causes are also unclear, but several factors can increase the risk: •Age: Most cases occur between ages 15 and 35. •Undescended testicle (cryptorchidism): Increases risk significantly. •Family history: A brother or father with the disease raises risk. •HIV infection: May increase susceptibility. •Race and ethnicity: More common in white males than in men of other races. Symptoms Unlike prostate cancer, testicular cancer often presents noticeable symptoms early on: •A lump or enlargement in either testicle

3. •A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum •A dull ache in the abdomen or groin •Sudden swelling or pain in the scrotum •Tenderness or changes in the size of the testicle Diagnosis Early detection is often due to self-examination. Diagnostic tools include: •Ultrasound: To detect abnormalities in the testicles. •Blood Tests: Check for tumor markers such as AFP, hCG, and LDH. •Biopsy or Surgery: Often involves removal of the testicle (orchiectomy) for analysis. Treatment Options Testicular cancer is one of the most treatable types of cancer, even in advanced stages: •Surgery: Removal of the affected testicle is standard. •Radiation Therapy: Often used for seminomas (a type of testicular cancer). •Chemotherapy: Highly effective, particularly for non-seminomas. •Surveillance: For early-stage cases with low recurrence risk.