Height is a risk factor for developing testicular cancer, according to Dr. Joelle Amissah, a junior resident in general surgery at the Korle Bu teaching hospital.

0

She explained testicular cancer as cancer of the testis and some of its surrounding structures, which is mostly caused by a genetic mutation that happens while in the uterus but will not manifest until puberty.

1

According to Ms. Amissah, it has been noted globally that most people who contract testicular cancer are tall, while short men rarely get testicular cancer.

2

“It hasn’t been explained, but being tall is a predisposing factor to getting testicular cancer,” Ms. Amissah said during a media engagement.

3

However, she maintained, “being tall” is relative to geographical location. She also added that the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is also a risk factor for getting testicular cancer.

4

“HIV is just a terrible virus. It activates so many cancers and it activates quite a few mutations as well,” she said.

5

Ms. Amissah stated that being diagnosed with testicular cancer means having subfertility; however, patients can undergo surgery and radiation therapy.

6

She advised men to examine their testicles once a month to know their status.

7

8