Greg, Testicular Cancer Patient Story

In September 2011, Greg Haynes found a lump on his left testicle. When November came and the lump was still there, he decided to get it checked. An ultrasound revealed something was abnormal, and he was soon diagnosed with testicular cancer. Greg had surgery the very next day and from then on began active surveillance, with monthly blood work and CT scans every three months. A little more than a year following his surgery, Greg’s cancer returned, and they moved his treatment to Cranberry to be closer to home. Today, Greg is doing much better and now has the strength to play with his young daughter.

“Through surgery, chemotherapy, and receiving care closer to home, UPMC gave my husband, and our family, our lives back.” – Amanda Haynes, wife.

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Testicular Cancer Awareness

April is Testicular Cancer Awareness Month — a time to brush up on your knowledge and learn what to look for. On average, 7,000 cases of testicular cancer are diagnosed in the United States each year.

Factors that may increase testicular cancer risk

  • Age — it is the most common cancer in young men between the ages of 15 and 35
  • Undescended testicle — one that never moved into the scrotum
  • Abnormal testicular development
  • History of testicular cancer — personally or in your family

Symptoms of testicular cancer

  • A painless or an uncomfortable lump in the testicle
  • Enlargement of swelling in the testicle
  • A sensation of heaviness or aching in the lower abdomen or scrotum

The symptoms listed above may also be caused by conditions other than cancer. However, if you or someone you know has and of these, you should contact your physician for further examination.

Fortunately, testicular cancer is highly treatable. Treatment varies for each patient, based on the stage of the cancer and other factors, but may include:

  • Surgery to remove the cancerous testicle
  • External beam radiation therapy
  • Chemotherapy for more advanced cases

About Adult Congenital Heart Disease Center

The UPMC Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD) Center is a joint program between UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh and UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute. We provide long-term care for adolescents, young adults, maternal patients, and adults with congenital heart disease. Our goal is to provide complete care from your childhood all the way through your life. Our team of experts has a wide knowledge of heart conditions.