Cahonas: Wishart speaks in Testicular Cancer debate

Scottish Liberal Democrat and Shetland MSP Beatrice Wishart took part in a Testicular Cancer debate during Testicular Cancer Awareness Month. The debate highlighted the work of Scotland’s only dedicated testicular cancer charity, Cahonas Scotland.

Testicular cancer remains the most common cancer in young men aged 15 - 45 and while it is over 95% cure rate when caught early, many still face delays in diagnosis due to stigma, lack of awareness, and persistent health inequalities. Approximately 220 people in Scotland are diagnosed each year.

During the debate Ms Wishart spoke of some of the symptoms to look out for and the importance of education and self-checks for men.

Speaking in the debate Ms Wishart said:

“As the motion highlights, approximately 220 people in Scotland are diagnosed each year. 

“The latest NHS Shetland data shows low numbers of testicular cancer patients in the isles over the past five years, with no diagnoses in 2020 or 2021—people avoiding seeing the doctor during the height of the Covid pandemic might have had something to do with that. 

“In the past five years, all cases in Shetland were treated within the target period.

“Of course, low numbers do not make island men indestructible and, just as women are encouraged to regularly check their breasts for any lumps, bumps or changes, so too should men self-check themselves.”

You can see Ms Wishart’s full contribution here.