Testicular Cancer: Medicine and Machismo in the Media (1980–94)

Abstract

Testicular cancer is the most common cause of death for men aged 19–35 in North America. The mass print and other media are important sources of ‘information’ about a variety of treatment and health-related matters. This article explores the portrayal of testicular cancer in the mass print media from 1980–94. The analysis is both manifest and latent. The manifest analysis indicates the emphasis on early detection. The latent analysis indicates that the disease is described primarily through three different discourses: medical, machismo and social support. Stories of men with testicular cancer emphasize early detection and medical treatment; sports and competitiveness, sexuality, financial acumen, sexual and physical attractiveness and desirability, as well as war and battles; and the importance of social support.