The frequency of sexual activity and performance changes as men reach the latter stages of their life. This happens because the production of testosterone lessens as people get older. Testosterone is a hormone that is required for sperm production and the development of the male reproductive system. More than just a substance that stimulates sexual appetite, testosterone is a natural steroid hormone that is needed for proper immune system function, improved energy, and bone strength. The decline in the production of this substance in the body causes tiredness, depression, loss of strength, and low sex drive.
Age is not the only culprit in the decrease of testosterone production. Improper lifestyles like heavy drinking, smoking, unhealthy diet, and lack of exercise may lead to testicular failure. Because the testicles are the producers of these sex hormones, such malfunction may lead to infertility, lack of sex drive or delayed sexual maturation. Testicular failure may also be caused by testicular cancer and orchitis.
Testicular cancer is an uncommon condition that affects only one percent of all cancers in men. Doctors do not know the exact cause of testicular cancer, but many risk factors for the development of this disease have been identified. Men between the ages 15 and 39 are at risk of acquiring this condition. Studies show that men who have undescended testicles are at high risk of testicular cancer. Other factors include Klinefelter’s Syndrome, a genetic condition that involves abnormal development of the testicles, and having a family history that is marked by testicular cancer.
Testicular cancer can be treated when detected early. Early detection of testicular cancer has improved the chances of survival by 95%. However, majority of men with testicular cancer do not seek treatment until the cancer has spread outside the testicles to other parts of the body.
Symptoms of testicular cancer may include: