Brothers or sons of men who’ve had testicular cancer may be at risk of developing the disease
Blog Snapshot:
- There is some evidence that suggests family history, in addition to other factors, increase the likelihood of testicular cancer.
- Affiliated Urologists shares testicular cancer risks and causes with readers in this week’s blog.
Before diving into this article, we want to preface all of the information we provide today with this small, yet significant disclaimer: just because you have a risk factor, or several, does not mean you will get testicular cancer definitely.
This information is meant to educate patients on the potential risks and share why it’s important to discuss early detection, diagnosis and treatment with a urologist. Having said that, there are some risk factors men need to be aware of that increase the likelihood of developing testicular cancer, which includes family history. Men who’ve had a brother or father diagnosed with testicular cancer do have an increased risk of the disease.
According to Cancer Research UK:
- Men with a father who had testicular cancer are 4 times more likely to develop the cancer themselves.
- Men with a brother who had testicular cancer are 8 times more likely to develop the cancer themselves.
- Men with family members who have non Hodgkin lymphoma and esophageal cancer are also at increased risk of testicular cancer.
There are other risk factors that affect the likelihood of testicular cancer, including:
- Undescended Testicle
Men with this condition who have not had it corrected by 13 years of age are 6 times more likely to develop testicular cancer.
- Fertility Problems
The overall risk is small, but doctors believe there may be a link between infertility and a heightened risk of testicular cancer.
- Previous Cancers
Men who’ve had testicular cancer have an increased risk of developing it in their other testis.
Other medical conditions may be associated with testicular cancer as well. Talk to our team at Affiliated Urologists about your risk and how to get screened for testicular cancer.
Affiliated Urologists is an award-winning practice recognized both locally and nationally that has provided service to patients in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and surrounding communities in the Valley, for over 40 years. The physicians emphasize top-of-the-line comprehensive urological care and strive to deliver the highest outcomes for patient satisfaction. To make an appointment, call 602-264-0608 or visit http://affiliatedurologists.com/contact/ for instructions on scheduling an appointment.
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
