Final answer:
Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in men aged 20 to 39 and has a high cure rate, especially when found early. Signs include a testicular lump and treatment often involves surgery plus potential chemotherapy or radiation. Normal male functions remain if one testis is healthy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The internationally famous athlete Lance Armstrong fought and won against testicular cancer. Testicular cancer, which affects the male reproductive organs known as the testes, is the most common cancer in males between 20 and 39 years old. Although the cause of testicular cancer is largely unknown, it has one of the highest cure rates among all cancers, especially if detected early.
Possible signs and symptoms of testicular cancer include a lump or swelling in one testis, fluid in the scrotum, and pain or tenderness in the testicular region. Diagnosing testicular cancer usually involves a physical exam, testicular ultrasound, and blood tests. The first line of treatment commonly involves surgery to remove the affected testis, which may be followed by radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy, such as treatment with cisplatin, which was used in Armstrong's case to cure the cancer when it had metastasized.
After the surgical removal of one testis, as long as the remaining testis is healthy, a male can maintain normal reproductive functions, hormone production, and fertility. Testicular cancer is more prevalent in individuals of European than African ancestry, but the reason for this difference is not clear.