Capital FM presenter Chris Stark has announced in a statement that he's been diagnosed with testicular cancer.
The radio host, 38, said on a statement on social media that he was informed of the cancer a couple months ago 'after a routine trip to my local doctors'.
"I had surgery pretty quickly and have been off the radio/podcasts the last couple of weeks having chemotherapy to best prevent anything from coming back," the co-presenter of That Peter Crouch Podcast said in a statement posted today (24 March).
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Urging others with symptoms to get checked, he added: "The reason I want to share this is that I feel like an idiot that I didn't spot this sooner.
"And although I'm effectively cured and it was caught early, my hope is any bloke reading this will perhaps think to check themselves today. Or go to a doctor I not sure about any possible symptoms.
"Caught early, this cancer is so so treatable. It is most common in men aged 18-49.
"I also think it's a tricky subject matter to talk about, but I'm willing to put my now one ball on the line here if it helps make that conversation less tricky for guys, encourages someone to check themselves and potentially saves a life."
He went on: "Thank you to my incredible family, who stood by me and encouraged me to share what's happened.
"I also want to thank my brilliant friends and work colleagues for supporting me and my family.
"And of course, a huge thank you to the incredible doctors, nurses, and hospital staff I've encountered, especially concerning cancer care.
"Also want to take a moment to send my thoughts and prayers to anyone affected by cancer.
"Check your balls. Chris xx PS Excited to get back (stronger) to the radio tomo."
Symptoms of testicular cancer
According to the NHS, symptoms of testicular cancer include:
• a lump or swelling in your testicle
• your testicle getting bigger
• an ache or pain in your testicle or scrotum (the skin that covers the testicles)
• your scrotum feeling heavy, firm or hard
Other symptoms can include:
• an ache or pain in your back or lower tummy
• losing weight without trying
• a cough
• difficulty breathing or swallowing
• a sore or swollen chest
If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, contact Macmillan’s Cancer Support Line on 0808 808 00 00, 8am–8pm seven days a week.
Anish Vij