WHEN 31-year-old local man Troy Jacobs started experiencing abdominal and pelvic pain in May last year cancer was the last thing on his mind.
The former mine worker who was used to putting in 70-80-hour weeks found himself struggling to get through 10 hours a week and knew something “wasn’t right”.
“I went to the doctor and had an ultrasound,” Troy said.
“It showed a mass in my testicle.”
Within a week Troy was seeing a urologist who diagnosed testicular cancer after removing the lump.
A further CT scan showed an enlarged lymph node in Troy’s stomach and the next four months were spent undergoing chemotherapy.
By the end of February this year Troy was again in pain.
“I went back to my doctor but he said it was just scar tissue,” Troy said.
“A month later the pain was worse so I had another CT scan.
“I had an apple-sized tumour between my kidneys and six enlarged lymph nodes on my lungs.
“I started chemo again four days later.”
The second round of chemotherapy “knocked me for six” according to Troy who has endured test upon test since being diagnosed.
He had surgery in October to remove the tumour and lymph nodes but his oncologist said there were still cancer cells in the body.
“I’ve been told to relax for the next two months before I have another scan and see what’s happening,” Troy said.
Until then he will continue to work part-time and hopes his story can help out other men who may be going through a similar situation.
“When I first got the news it was really daunting,” he said.
“It’s been a rollercoaster ride – everything’s happened so quickly.
“I have a lot of unanswered questions.”
The father of three wants to warn other men to “be more vigilant” about health matters.
“Breast and prostate cancer are highly publicised,” he said.
“But guys my age don’t know anything about testicular cancer.
“They should go to the doctor if something doesn’t seem right.
“Don’t hesitate.”
TESTICULAR cancer is one of the most curable of all cancers.
It is quite rare, affecting approximately 6.8 in every 100,000 men.
Young men suffer the disease most often with close to half of new diagnoses being made in men under the age of 33 years.
Chemotherapy has been successful in treating the cancer and, as with other forms of cancer, early detection is key.
Men are advised to become familiar with the usual feel of their testicles and to consult a doctor if they notice any significant changes.
Those with a family history of testicular cancer or absent or undescended testicles should particularly check for lumps or swelling.
As with most cancers, there are some simple steps men can take to reduce their likelihood of contracting testicular cancer.
These include: stop smoking, avoid or limit alcohol, be sun smart, exercise and eat healthily.
For further information contact the Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20.
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