Final answer:
Testicular cancer commonly presents as a lump or swelling in a testis, occurring primarily in males aged 15 to 35. It can be diagnosed with a physical exam and imaging and has a high cure rate with surgery. Males of European ancestry have a higher incidence of testicular cancer.
Step-by-step explanation:
Signs and Symptoms of Testicular Cancer
Testicular cancer, or cancer of the testes, frequently affects males between 15 to 35 years of age. The most common sign often is a lump or swelling in one of the testes. This lump might cause sharp pain, a dull ache in the lower abdomen or scrotum, or a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum. Some males may notice fluid accumulation in the scrotum or experience testicular pain.
Testicular cancer diagnosis involves a physical examination and may include an ultrasound or blood tests. Fortunately, testicular cancer has one of the highest cure rates among cancers. Treatment generally includes surgery to remove the affected testicle, which can be followed by radiation or chemotherapy if necessary. The good news is that even with the removal of one testis, normal male reproductive functions can still continue if the other testis is healthy.
It's important to note that testicular cancer is more common in individuals of European ancestry compared to African ancestry. While it does not often spread beyond the testis, if it does, the lungs are the most likely site, potentially leading to symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath.