As a medical oncologist, I will often share a simple but powerful message with my patients: The earlier we find cancer, the easier it is to treat. This fact is true for testicular cancer — one of the most curable cancers when detected early.
A cancer that often affects young healthy men
Testicular cancer is relatively uncommon compared with cancers such as prostate or lung cancer. However, it has a unique feature: it most often affects younger men.
The average age at diagnosis is 33, and it is the most common cancer in men ages 15 to 34.
In the United States, about 10,000 men are diagnosed each year, resulting in about 600 deaths. A man’s lifetime risk is about 1 in 250, while the risk of dying from testicular cancer is much lower — about 1 in 5,000 — thanks to effective treatments.
Unfortunately, many cases are diagnosed later than they should be. Almost half of men seek care only after the cancer has already spread, often because early symptoms are painless or go unnoticed.
The power of early detection
Early detection significantly improves outcomes.
- 99% five-year survival rate when cancer is confined to the testicle
- When it spreads to nearby lymph nodes, survival rate drops to 96% at five years.
- When it spreads to distant organs, five-year survival rates can drop to 72% depending on the cancer subtype.
These numbers highlight why recognizing symptoms and performing regular self-exams is so important.
When should men screen for testicular cancer?
There is no standard population screening program for testicular cancer like there is for prostate or colon cancer.
Instead, doctors recommend:
- Self-awareness
- Monthly testicular self-exams
- Prompt medical evaluation of any changes
I would recommend monthly testicular self exams starting in adolescence through early adulthood when risk is the highest. The best time is after a warm shower when the scrotal skin is relaxed.
How to do a testicular self-exam
Performing a testicular self-exam takes about one minute:
- Look for changes
Stand in front of a mirror and check for swelling, asymmetry or visible changes. - Examine each testicle
Gently roll each testicle between your thumb and fingers. - Know what is normal
A healthy testicle is smooth, firm and oval-shaped. It is normal for one testicle to be slightly larger or hang lower.
Warning signs to watch for
See a doctor if you notice any of the following:
- A painless lump in the testicle
- Swelling or enlargement of a testicle
- Sudden buildup of fluid in the scrotum
- A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
- A dull ache in the groin or lower abdomen
Why awareness matters
Testicular cancer often affects men who otherwise feel healthy, which can lead to delays in seeking care due to embarrassment or fear.
But the reality is clear: Testicular cancer is highly curable, especially when found early.
Routine self-exams, awareness of symptoms and prompt medical care can save lives.
As oncologists, we often rely on high-tech, expensive screening tests and treatments, but the most powerful tool remains simple awareness. That’s why it is important to know what is normal for your body. If something changes, don’t wait and talk to your doctor.
A one-minute check each month can make a life-saving difference.
LEARN MORE ABOUT TESTICULAR CANCER CARE AT NORTHSIDE.
