Rugby & Testicular Cancer
Rugby is a widely popular sport in the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Australia and South Africa. It has several similarities to American Football. Naturally this leads to concerns about safety, and testicular cancer in particular.
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Does Rugby Cause Testicular Cancer?
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According to the American Cancer Society, who provides a list of testicular cancer risk factors, there is no link between playing Rugby and getting testicular cancer. While New Zealand center player Tony Marsh was diagnosed with the disease, it is unlikely that there is a connection between his cancer diagnosis and Rugby.
Causes of Testicular Cancer
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Testicular cancer is most often triggered by infection. However, it can also be cancer from another part of the body that has spread to the testicles. Undescended testicles and a family history are also major factors.
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Symptoms of Testicular Cancer
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There is no evidence to suggest that the most common Rugby injuries can trigger testicular cancer. However, the most common symptoms to look out for are, according to Cancer Research UK, a lump or lumps in one of the testes, a "heavy scrotum", and hormonal imbalances that are picked up in blood tests. However, none of these have been shown to be caused by playing Rugby.
How to Check for Testicular Cancer
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Whilst there is no direct link between playing Rugby and the disease, several prominent Rugby players have promoted "checking yourself" for tumors. This involves taking a shower (to ensure the skin around the testes is relaxed) and feeling for unusual bumps using the thumb, index and middle fingers. See a physician immediately if you feel one.
Testicular Cancer Awareness
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Despite the fact that over half of all testicular cancer rates occur in the under 35 age group, there is not much public awareness of the disease, and there is not as much awareness in men as there is for breast cancer in women. However, groups such as the Everyman group in the UK and LIVESTRONG in the USA are working to promote awareness of the disease.
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