When we think of cancer, we often associate it with aging. However, testicular cancer breaks that trend — it primarily affects young and middle-aged men, with most cases occurring between the ages of 15 and 40. Although it’s relatively rare compared to other cancers, testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young men. The good news? It’s also highly treatable, especially when caught early.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what testicular cancer is, who is at risk, early warning signs, and most importantly — why early detection can make all the difference.
🧬 What is Testicular Cancer?
Testicular cancer begins in the testicles, the male reproductive glands located in the scrotum. These glands are responsible for producing sperm and the hormone testosterone.
Most testicular cancers start in germ cells, which are cells that produce sperm. There are two main types:
Seminomas – grow more slowly and respond well to radiation.
Non-seminomas – grow faster and may require aggressive treatment.
📊 Who Is at Risk?
While the exact cause of testicular cancer remains unclear, certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing it:
Age: Most common between ages 15 and 40.
Undescended testicle (cryptorchidism): Men born with a testicle that didn’t descend into the scrotum.
Family history: Having a father or brother with testicular cancer increases risk.
Previous testicular cancer: If you’ve had it once, you have a higher risk of developing it again.
Race: More common in white men than in Black or Asian men.
🚨 Early Warning Signs to Watch For
The most common early sign of testicular cancer is:
A painless lump or swelling in the testicle
Other possible signs include:
A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
A dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin
Pain or discomfort in a testicle or the scrotum
Sudden buildup of fluid in the scrotum
Enlargement or tenderness of breast tissue (gynecomastia), due to hormonal changes
⚠️ Important: These symptoms don’t always mean cancer, but they should never be ignored. Many testicular lumps are benign, but only a doctor can confirm the cause.
🔍 Why Early Detection Matters
Early detection of testicular cancer dramatically increases survival rates.
✅ Survival Rates:
Stage I (localized): Over 99% survival rate
Stage II (spread to lymph nodes): 96–98%
Stage III (spread to other organs): Still over 70–80%
Benefits of Early Detection:
Less aggressive treatment (possibly avoiding chemotherapy or surgery)
Lower chance of cancer spreading
Shorter recovery time
Reduced side effects and long-term health impact
👨⚕️ How to Detect It Early
1. Monthly Testicular Self-Exam (TSE)
Young men should perform a self-exam once a month, ideally after a warm shower when the scrotum is relaxed.
Steps:
Stand in front of a mirror. Look for swelling or changes in appearance.
Examine each testicle with both hands.
Gently roll the testicle between your thumb and fingers.
Look for lumps, firmness, or size changes.
Remember: It’s normal for one testicle to be slightly larger or hang lower. You’re checking for new changes.
2. Regular Checkups
If you notice anything unusual, don’t wait — consult a doctor or urologist right away. A physical exam, ultrasound, and blood tests (tumor markers like AFP, hCG, LDH) can help diagnose it early.
🧠 Emotional and Psychological Impact
A testicular cancer diagnosis, especially at a young age, can affect more than just physical health:
Body image concerns
Fear about fertility
Anxiety or depression
However, support is available. Many survivors go on to live normal, healthy lives — including starting families.
Good news: In most cases, only one testicle is removed, and the remaining one is often sufficient for both hormone production and fertility.
✅ What You Can Do Today
Know your body: Be aware of what feels normal.
Talk openly: Encourage friends, sons, and brothers to learn about testicular cancer.
Don’t delay: See a doctor for any unusual signs or changes.
Schedule check-ups: Especially if you have a history of risk factors.
👨⚕️ Expert Help in Bhubaneswar
If you’re in Bhubaneswar or Odisha, consult with Dr. Rahul Jena, one of the best urologists in Bhubaneswar, for expert evaluation and care. He specializes in male reproductive health, urologic oncology, and has a patient-friendly, evidence-based approach to managing testicular and other urological cancers.
📌 Final Thoughts
While testicular cancer is serious, it’s highly curable when detected early. Young men often ignore warning signs out of fear or embarrassment — but early action can save your life.
Let’s break the stigma. Let’s spread awareness. And let’s encourage men to speak up, check regularly, and take control of their health.