Testicular cancer is most common among men aged 18 to 39. It’s a cancer that men aren’t “too young” to get diagnosed with. Over the past three decades, the rate of this type of cancer has grown by more than 50%.[1]

Although it affects small numbers in comparison to other health issues, it’s important to discuss, especially in communities where the “I’m fine” masculine bravado dominates. Emergency services work, particularly with police and firefighters, the culture is ‘strong is better’ and speaking up it stigmatised.

While there aren’t necessarily higher numbers of first responders with testicular cancer, the lack of openness and resistance to talking to people is creating a risk factor.

What causes testicular cancer?

The cause of this type of cancer is still widely unknown. It occurs when healthy cells become altered and develop abnormalities. Cancer cells continue to divide and multiply, forming a mass in the testicle.

There are some known risk factors, including abnormal development, family history, race, and age. Yes, it can occur at any age, but it’s most common in young adults. This also means many cases go undisclosed, because the general attitude is that “I’m young, so I’m fine.” 

Men who fail to get regular check-ups are at a greater risk of testicular cancer. While there’s no evidence to show that physical injuries (that emergency workers are prone to) increases the likelihood of testicular cancer, it is something to be mindful of. First responders should get checked if there’s a history of trauma to the testicles. For example, there was pain ‘down there’ after tackling someone to the ground.

Proactivity is the best prevention

At 98%, the survival rate is extremely high. However the real problems occur if the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes in the abdomen, pelvis or up into the lungs and liver. For the 30-something paramedic or firefighter, the last thing they’re thinking about is testicular cancer. Men on the front line think of themselves as tough and hold their physical masculinity in high regard.

For men in emergency roles who discover they have testicular cancer, being open with colleagues is essential.

In some cases, when a testicle needs to be removed, this can spur body image issues. It’s important to process these emotions, as it can challenge your perceived ‘worthiness’ to be on the force or out there saving lives. In more severe cases, chemotherapy is necessary, which can directly affect the sense of identity.

Coping with the cancer diagnosis will probably be a greater challenge for front-line workers, for this reason. This is where having adequate health support, beyond the physical treatment, becomes essential. For example, seeing a psychologist on a regular basis to work through identity issues.

The Cancer Council has put together a comprehensive resource that can help you (and others) understand this journey.

Often, life-changing situations like this leads to a sense of empowerment. If there’s one line of work that can benefit from more openness and experiences from people who have gone through, and overcome, personal challenges, it’s emergency services.

Showing real strength goes beyond just the muscle and capability. It’s being able to overcome tragedy and use your story to help others. It’s why you got into firefighting or paramedic work in the first place… to leverage your strength and willpower to support others.

That’s the real strength of a man.  

Cover like no other

We understand the demands of front line work more than any other insurer. After all, we've been looking after the health and wellbeing of the police community for more than 85 years. Whether you're already a member or interested in becoming one, call us to find out how to get the most out of our cover and benefits. We're here to help. 

Please note: some articles on this website are compiled from material obtained externally. Although we make every effort to ensure information is correct at the time of publication, we accept no responsibility for its accuracy. Health-related articles are intended for general information only and should not be interpreted as medical advice. Please consult your doctor. The views expressed in articles are not necessarily those of Emergency Services Health.

There are seemingly ‘common’ infections that are detrimental to the elderly. Although not a chronic issue, these infections are among the top 10 causes of death in people over age 65.[1]

Pneumococcal pneumonia, a specific strain, is life-threatening – and the trouble is, most people aren’t aware of it.

According to Heathline, being over 65 is one risk factor. Having heart disease and being a smoker also increases the likelihood of pneumonia.[2] While there isn’t a direct link between first responder work and these infections, smoking and heart complications are common in emergency services.

With viral pneumonia being contagious, however, first responders are at a greater risk due to their interaction with the community. Workers aren’t aware who has the flu (or those who are vaccinated). They’re on the front line, dealing with the public and unlawful citizens (many of which struggle with substance abuse and are unwell).

First responders with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) are more likely to suffer from pneumonia. This condition is caused by cigarette smoke, pollution, toxic chemicals and dust. Given the nature of emergency work, first responders are at a greater risk of developing COPD – and, potentially, pneumonia.

Sleep, exercise & nutrition. The trifecta. 

Emergency workers can’t predict the people they’ll come into contact with. It’s social work and interacting with community members is inevitable. The best guard against these infections is prioritising wellbeing. This means implementing sleep hygiene strategies, exercising regularly, and following a nutritious diet, preferably Mediterranean style.

Dealing with traumatising events on-the-job, will help to minimise sleeping issues, PTSD, and avoidance issues. Communicate the importance of health and wellbeing in the department to create an environment conducive to active, open conversations.

If you have diabetes or heart disease, prevent influenza and pneumonia by managing your condition. It’s important to keep the body strong and able to fight off infections.

Protect yourself, and the public, with coverage designed (and only available) for you.

Cover like no other

We understand the demands of front line work more than any other insurer. After all, we've been looking after the health and wellbeing of the police community for more than 85 years. Whether you're already a member or interested in becoming one, call us to find out how to get the most out of our cover and benefits. We're here to help. 

Please note: some articles on this website are compiled from material obtained externally. Although we make every effort to ensure information is correct at the time of publication, we accept no responsibility for its accuracy. Health-related articles are intended for general information only and should not be interpreted as medical advice. Please consult your doctor. The views expressed in articles are not necessarily those of Emergency Services Health.

Hot flushes, mood changes, menstrual changes and having trouble concentrating are synonymous with menopause. “But, I’m in my early 40’s. It can’t be menopause!”

Well, yes, it can. It’s called Perimenopause or menopause transition. Let’s take a look at the difference between perimenopause and menopause. For women working in emergency services, it’s important to know what stage you’re in, to best support your body (and mind).

Managing your energy levels, overcoming perimenopause symptoms and emotionally processing (and accepting) these body changes can be difficult for women who work night shifts. Long hours and on-the-job stresses tire the body, but it can be as equally emotionally taxing.

Unpredictable fluctuations in hormones can lead to stress, body image issues, and general emotional distress. Depression isn’t uncommon for women in this transformative era. Add to this the pressure of always having to be ‘on’, hyper-intense life or death situations and maintaining that ‘wife’ or ‘mother’ role at home, coping can be a challenge.

Let’s look at what’s happening in the body.

The timeline for perimenopause

According to Healthline, perimenopause happens before menopause. Although both are part of the same overall life transition, perimenopause and menopause have different characteristics.

Just to add one more term into the mix, premenopause is used to define women who experience NO symptoms. While hormonal changes may be occurring, there are no obvious changes in the body. But for the purpose of this article, we’re focusing on the more common of the two: perimenopause.

It happens in stages

Menopause doesn’t just start suddenly, overnight. It’s a transition that emerges in stages. Most women begin this journey between 45 to 55 years. However, perimenopause starts well before this – sometimes, 8-10 years ahead of menopause. This means, women begin to experience perimenopause from around 35 to 45 years.

The initial (biological) marker is a drop-in estrogen. As perimenopause progresses, the body produces less and less estrogen. This phase can last between a few months to up to four years as the body transitions into menopause when the eggs are no longer released.

Perimenopause symptoms to look for

Perimenopause (and onto menopause) are more than just night sweats. ‘Listen’ to your body and how it’s behaving. As estrogen levels drop, you may experience any of the following symptoms:

• Anxiety, mood swings & depression
• Stress, fatigue & forgetfulness
• Hair changes, weight gain & headaches
• Dry skin, frequent urination & muscle aches
• Changes in cholesterol levels

Remember, this is a natural process

Perimenopause marks the beginning of your body moving into a different phase of life. For those women who experience this earlier in their late 30s and early 40s, the emotional effects might mirror the severity of the physical.

We recommend tackling this lifecycle change with dual physical and mental support. With changes in mood, sexual function and body appearance, it’s important to talk to a mental health specialist to emotionally guide you through the journey.

The physical support required will depend on the side effects. As estrogen levels decline, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (the ‘bad’ type) rises. This increases the risk of heart disease.

Losing estrogen is also linked to weaker bones, increasing the chance of osteoporosis. Targeting these detrimental issues early, in the perimenopause stage, is vital to good health in (and after) menopause.

Perimenopause usually lasts around four years…

Make sure you have the support you need

Self-care is an essential ingredient in your path through menopause. Regular exercise is a natural mood and weight loss remedy. Investing in relaxing activities before bed, such as yoga and meditation, can reduce or alleviate insomnia.

And of course, following the standard health must-dos: avoid alcohol and cigarettes, consume healthy foods, and exercise. Take your mental health just as seriously as your physical.

Emergency Services Health’s broad suite of coverage benefits includes acupuncture, complementary therapies, counselling and psychology – all of which support women transitioning into menopause.

Take acupuncture, for example. Studies have shown that acupuncture eases the unpleasant symptoms of menopause, such as insomnia, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue.

Cover like no other

We understand the demands of front line work more than any other insurer. After all, we've been looking after the health and wellbeing of the police community for more than 85 years. Whether you're already a member or interested in becoming one, call us to find out how to get the most out of our cover and benefits. We're here to help. 

Please note: some articles on this website are compiled from material obtained externally. Although we make every effort to ensure information is correct at the time of publication, we accept no responsibility for its accuracy. Health-related articles are intended for general information only and should not be interpreted as medical advice. Please consult your doctor. The views expressed in articles are not necessarily those of Emergency Services Health.