Methodist Healthcare - June 12, 2020

Though rare, it is important for all men to learn about testicular cancer and know what to look for should they see any concerning symptoms. The good news is that testicular cancer is highly treatable and usually able to be removed completely.

In 2016, testicular cancer had a 99 percent survival rate for cancers diagnosed in the localized stage and a 95 percent survival rate for all stages of testicular cancer. Early detection is a key factor in survival rates.

Here are five things you should know about testicular cancer:

  1. Males of any age can develop testicular cancer, from infants to the elderly. About half of all cases of testicular cancer are in men between the ages of 20 and 34, and Caucasian-American men are four to five times more likely to get testicular cancer than men of other races.
  2. Testicular cancer is rather uncommon; a man’s chance of developing it is about 1 in 263 over his lifetime.
  3. Symptoms for testicular cancer can often be mistaken for other issues. Common symptoms include a painless lump on or in the testicle, a swollen testicle, a heavy or achy feeling in the lower belly or scrotum, breast growth or soreness, or signs of early puberty in adolescent boys.
  4. Routine testicular self-exams help you learn what is normal for your body and when something may seem different. If you have any concerns, talk with your doctor immediately.
  5. Risk factors (PDF) may play a role in the likelihood of developing testicular cancer. If any close family members have had testicular cancer, you may be at a higher risk for developing this type of cancer. Other risk factors include if you have an undescended testicle, cancer in the other testicle or if you have been diagnosed with HIV.

If you notice any changes in your testicles, speak with your healthcare provider so that the cause can be found and treated if necessary. Learn more about the testicular cancer and the screening options provided with Methodist Healthcare.