What are prostate cancer and testicular cancer? The testicles and prostate gland are organs that are part of the male reproductive system. They have different roles and functions, but also together contribute to the production of hormones and seminal fluid. Prostate cancer and testicular cancer not only occur in different organs, but both types of cancer have different risk factors for onset, symptoms, and spread. Prostate cancer occurs when genetic changes cause cancer cells to grow in the prostate. It is one of the most common forms of cancer in men. The prostate gland is a dense, chestnut-shaped body located below the bladder, covering the beginning of the urethra. The hormone testosterone controls the functioning of the prostate. The prostate produces a secretion that mixes with seminal fluid from the testicles to make up semen. The prostate gland produces prostate-specific antigen (PSA), which is a protein that makes sperm watery. Producing prostate secretions is an important function of the prostate, but its muscles also help push semen into the urethra during sex. The prostate also converts testosterone into a biologically active form called dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Testicular cancer occurs when cancer cells develop in the testicles. The testes (testicles) are a paired organ in which sperm are formed and the male sex hormone testosterone is synthesized. What is the relationship between prostate cancer and testicular cancer? All forms of cancer are genetic diseases. This means that genetic changes (mutations) cause cells to become cancerous by growing and dividing uncontrollably. However, the root cause of prostate or testicular cancer is not clear. Nevertheless, prostate cancer is much more common than testicular cancer. Testicular cancer and prostate cancer do share some risk factors, for example: A family history of cancer; African ethnicity; Living in North America or Europe. There are also some similarities in the treatment options for these types of cancer. For example, doctors may offer watchful waiting or active surveillance as treatment options for prostate cancer or testicular cancer. This includes monitoring the cancer with regular check-ups to see if treatment is needed. During active surveillance, a specialist monitors the tumor and its development through a strict examination schedule. At each examination, a set of tests is carried out. The goal is to move on to other treatment options if the disease progresses. Active surveillance is a therapeutic approach in the treatment of localized prostate cancer with a low Gleason score (which indicates the degree of differentiation of the malignant tissue and determines the aggressiveness of the cancer). Men who have cancer without symptoms or other problems may not need treatment.This can be a good option to avoid the risks and side effects of cancer treatment. However, specialists can intervene if the condition worsens. Surgery is the main treatment for testicular cancer, which usually involves removing the testicle. Surgery is also an option for men with prostate cancer when the tumor has not spread (metastasized) and the patient is in good health. Other treatment options for these conditions may include radiation therapy or chemotherapy. These are useful approaches for treating cancers that have spread beyond their original location. References: 1. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Gurung, P., et al. (2021). Physiology, male reproductive system 2. American Cancer Society. Prostate cancer 3. American Cancer Society. Testicular cancer 4. Cancer Research UK (CRUK). Men and cancer