It’s time to raise awareness about a cancer that affects men, mostly between ages 15–45. And when detected early, it’s 95% curable!
Quick Facts
- One in 250 men will develop testicular cancer at some point during their lifetime.
- One in 5,000 men have a lifetime risk of dying from testicular cancer.
- The average age of a diagnosis is 33.
What is Testicular Cancer?
Testicular cancer develops in one or both testicles from the growth of abnormal cells. The first sign is often a bump or lump on a testicle. This cancer grows fast and can spread quickly to the rest of the body.
However, testicular cancer is treatable, even if it spreads. Treatment varies by the stage of the cancer and if it has spread, but common treatments include surgery and chemotherapy.
Signs and Symptoms
Testicular cancer typically happens only in one testicle. Signs and symptoms include:
- lump or swelling in one or both testicles
- feelings of heaviness in the scrotum
- dull ache in groin or lower belly
- pain or discomfort in the scrotum or a testicle
- tender or enlarged breast tissue
- back pain
Risk Factors
Four things may increase your risk of testicular cancer:
- An undescended testicle. This is when at least one of the testicles doesn't move down into the scrotum before birth. The risk is even higher if you had surgery to move the testicle to the scrotum.
- Family history. If testicular cancer runs in your family, your chances are higher.
- Younger age. This cancer is most common in teens and young adults between ages 15 and 45.
- Race. White people are most likely to get a testicular cancer diagnosis.
Testing and Prevention
Some health care providers recommend performing self-exams to feel for lumps or changes in your testicles. Although research doesn't show this can lower the risk of dying from testicular cancer, it's helpful to know how your testicles normally feel.
If you are diagnosed with testicular cancer, there's nothing you could've done to prevent it. Keep in mind that even if testicular cancer is found at a later stage, it's very likely to be cured.
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