§ Mr. BurnsTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what measures his Department has taken over the last 12 months to raise awareness of testicular cancer and the importance of self-checking, with specific reference to men aged under 35 years; and what further measures he plans to take in the future. [127485]
§ Miss Melanie JohnsonTesticular cancer is almost always curable if found early. The disease responds will to treatment even if it has spread to other parts of the body. More than nine out of 10 patients are cured.
There is currently no method by which a man can reduce his risk of developing the disease, but awareness of its early signs and symptoms should be encouraged. Men should be aware of any unusual changes and consult doctors early in order to ensure the maximum chance of a cure. That is why, in April last year, we collaborated with Cancer Research UK in the production of a testicular self-awareness leaflet, "Testicular Cancer: Spot the Symptoms Early".
We are also currently working with the Department of Psychiatry of Disability at St. George's Hospital Medical School on the production of testicular awareness materials for men with learning difficulties.