Public learns more about testicular cancer

Sandton Oncology Medical Centre hosted a testicular cancer awareness day event on 27 April. Oncologists, Dr Omondi Ogude and Dr Yusuf Mayet, fitness coach, Marlon Waldman and patients, Chris Lledo and Brandon Levenberg were the keynote speakers on the day and shed light on this ‘under-acknowledged’ topic.

Testicular cancer develops when normal cells in the testicles become abnormal and start to grow uncontrollably, forming a tumour or mass. “Even though it is quite normal that an individual’s testicles are not the same size, it is important to know when it is not normal,” said Mayet.

“This can be done by doing a self-examination in the shower because the scrotum is most relaxed then, making the testicles easier to examine,” he continued.

Testicular cancer is curable, especially when detected in the early stage. Ogude discussed the treatment options for testicular cancer. “Chemotherapy is the most effective treatment but obviously each treatment depends on the patient’s specific situation,” he said. “Each treatment option has its side effects, for example, patients may experience hair loss but it will grow back eventually.”

He also highlighted that testicular cancer is highly curable and it is not the end of the world.

Living testimonies of this statement were Llledo and Levenberg who were both diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2015.

“In the beginning, it was hard to take in but immediately after consulting my specialist, I knew I was going to be okay,” said Levenberg who now has check-ups every four months and a scan every six months to check if there were signs of cancer recurring.

Lledo was doing his honours year in accounting sciences at the University of Johannesburg when he was diagnosed, but four years down the line, he is doing his final year of articles and will be a qualified chartered accountant after he has graduated.

Waldman summed up the discussion by giving fitness tips to the attendees and he encouraged them to exercise at least 20 minutes a week. “Remember that a good, healthy body is also made in the kitchen. So eating healthy is the way to go.”

Related articles:

https://www.citizen.co.za/sandton-chronicle/224130/testicular-cancer-awareness-day-event/

https://www.citizen.co.za/sandton-chronicle/222984/need-know-prostate-testicular-cancer-brief-recap/