Testicular cancer survival rate reaches 96%

A cure for testicular cancer “is almost a reality”, with nearly all sufferers beating the disease, according to a cancer expert.

More than 96% of men now survive testicular cancer compared with less than 70% in the 1970s, new figures from Cancer Research UK show.

Survival for testicular cancer has risen by almost 30% in the last 40 years, with nearly all men now beating the disease.

Cancer Research UK released the figures to highlight the success of research in the fight against cancer and encourage people to support their “Beat Cancer Sooner” campaign.

In Scotland, about 230 people are diagnosed with testicular cancer every year and it is the most common cancer in men aged 15-49.

Cancer Research UK chief executive Dr Harpal Kumar said: “A clear success story in cancer research has been the drug cisplatin, which our scientists helped to develop.

Dedicated

“This is helping almost all men with testicular cancer to beat the disease and is a shining example of what we can achieve through dedicated research.

“For some types of cancer, the word ‘cure’ is almost a reality - 96% of men with testicular cancer are now cured.

“But it’s important we recognise the 4% who aren’t surviving the disease, as well as the fact that we still need treatments to be kinder to patients in the future.

“It’s only by doing more research that we can bring forward the day when we are able to beat all types of cancer.”

Alex Watson, of Lenzie in East Dunbartonshire, survived testicular cancer after being diagnosed aged 23.

Mr Watson, now 41, who lives with his civil partner Peter, said: “I feel I was incredibly fortunate to be cured and survive testicular cancer.

“Years ago, testicular cancer is something that you wouldn’t have survived - I did know of someone who was diagnosed at the same time as me who died from the disease.

Discomfort

“It’s so good that people are getting the all-clear and are surviving, but I do think more needs to be done in terms of making sure people get better and kinder treatments.”

Martin Ledwick, head information nurse at Cancer Research UK, said: “The most common symptom of testicular cancer is a lump or swelling in one of the testicles.

“Although most lumps in the testicle won’t turn out to be cancer, it’s important you get symptoms checked out as early as possible as this gives the best chance of cure.

“Get used to how your testicles look and feel normally, and if you notice a lump, swelling or persistent discomfort then go and see your GP.”