Source: images.agoramedia.com

 

Just because it was able to withstand the test of time or it has gone viral in some random post, doesn’t mean that you have to believe it.

In the sea of information scattered around the internet these days, how sure are you that what you’re reading is an actual fact? Is it the kind of fact about testicular cancer that is a backed up by scientific research and studies with clinical trials and laboratory experiments? Or is it that misleading, untruthful information disguised as a fact to scare people?

The internet is composed of facts and fallacies circulating within its system 24/7. Myths, on the other hand, can or cannot be tagged as a fact unless proven otherwise by science. But some myths are usually fabricated and most of the time, exaggerated, to get more attention, likes, and views.

If a person is not vigilant about fact-checking, he would easily consider that a lump can instantly mean death. With myths that are false, it always comes down to some morbid, unrealistic outcome.

To get you up-to-date, here are some of the common myths that you might or might not know.

Myth #1: “I’ll only have it when I’m old.”

Sorry to burst your bubble but, no. As soon as you go into your teenage years, you become qualified and susceptible to having the big C. Though, it is accurate that older men tend to acquire other types of cancers. Testicular cancer, on the other hand, can affect men within 15 to 40 years old.

“The USPSTF recommends against screening for testicular cancer in adolescents or adult men. Of note, even if testicular cancer is caught late, treatment is oftentimes very effective,” writes Naveed Saleh, M.D., M.S.

Myth #2: “There goes my sex life.”

Thinking that your sex drive will diminish or suffer once you’ve undergone surgery or treatment is a mistake and outrageous. Men who have had testicular cancer can still get satisfied and have an orgasm even if both their testicles have been removed. Replacement of testosterone is possible and can make you feel normal.

“Treatment of other cancers, while not causing a direct compromise of sexual capability, can create embarrassment and self-consciousness that alter a person’s self-esteem and sexual prowess,” writes Roy B. Sessions, M.D.

Myth #3: “I’ve injured by balls, I’m going to have cancer.”

Source: findatopdoc.com

 

That’s totally not the case. Contrary to what most men’s belief, direct trauma to the nuts does not, in any way, cause cancer. More so, vigorous activities that cause friction are not considered as risk factors for having testicular cancer. In fact, this is quite the opposite. Regular activities and exercise can actually lower men’s risk for testicular cancer.

Myth #4: “Testicular cancer is very common, I might have it.”

No, it is not; and no, you might probably not. The probability of having it is one out of 260 people, which makes testicular cancer extremely rare. Cancer affecting that colon, lungs, and prostate are even more common than that cancer affecting the testicles. And every year, there are more or less 8,000 who are diagnosed will the illness.

“When you self-diagnose, you are essentially assuming that you know the subtleties that diagnosis constitutes. This can be very dangerous, as people who assume that they can surmise what is going on with themselves may miss the nuances of diagnosis,” writes Srini Pillay, M.D.

Myth #5: “I can no longer be treated.”

Source: st1.thehealthsite.com

 

Cheer up, because you can. According to medical experts, testicular cancer, as compared to other cancers, can easily be treated; especially with early detection. However, even in its later stages, testicular cancer can still be resolved and the rate of becoming cancer-free can be promising.

If the cancer is localized, which means affecting just one area or testicle, the chance for full recovery from the disease is around 99%. If cancer cells have escalated to nearby tissues and lymph nodes, there is a 96% chance of recovery. Finally, if cancer cells have advanced to adjacent organs, there’s still a 75% chance of recovery. These numbers are quite impressive and are reassuring.

Breaking the myths

Do not believe everything you see or read without basis most especially if it is related to your health and is as disconcerting as cancer. Being well-informed is a huge advantage when it comes to testicular cancer; however, being misinformed is dangerous. Check your data and if in doubt, you can always consult a medical professional.

 

 

Busted! Popular Myths about Testicular Cancer that Can Cause Trouble