Neptune, N.J. (April 2026) - While an uncomfortable topic for many men, testicular cancer is a common cancer in American men between the ages of 15 and 35. While a highly curable disease if caught early, the reluctance to talk about it can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment. Mina Fam, M.D., director of uro-oncology at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center and director of robotic surgery at Hackensack Meridian Ocean University Medical Center, notes early detection is crucial – not only for successful treatment but also for managing the long-term effects that can surface decades later. He shares more during this Testicular Cancer Awareness Month.
While testicular cancer is relatively rare, accounting for about 1 in every 250 male cancer diagnoses, its incidence has been on the rise in the United States and many other countries for several decades. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2026, there will be about 9,810 new cases of testicular cancer diagnosed and about 630 deaths from the disease. The good news is that the lifetime risk of dying from testicular cancer is very low, about 1 in 5,000, largely because it is so treatable. The 5-year relative survival rate for localized testicular cancer is 99 percent.
One of the most critical messages of Testicular Cancer Awareness Month is the importance of self-examination. Being familiar with your own body is the first line of defense. The most common sign of testicular cancer is a painless lump or swelling in a testicle. Other symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum, a dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin, or a change in the size or feel of a testicle. It's important to remember that these symptoms can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions, but it's always best to get checked by a doctor. Delaying a visit to the doctor can allow the cancer to spread, making it more difficult to treat.
Performing a monthly self-exam is a simple and effective way to detect any changes early. The best time to do this is during or after a warm shower or bath when the scrotal skin is relaxed. Stand in front of a mirror and check for any swelling on the skin of the scrotum. Check each testicle separately, using both hands to gently roll each testicle between your thumbs and fingers. Feel for any hard lumps, smooth rounded bumps, or any changes in the size, shape, or consistency of the testicles.
You will also feel a soft, cord-like structure on the top and back of each testicle called the epididymis, which is a normal part of the anatomy. It's normal for one testicle to be slightly larger or hang lower than the other.
Embarrassment should never be a barrier to your health. Doctors are professionals who are there to help, and they have these conversations every day. If you notice any changes or have any concerns, schedule an appointment with your doctor.
For those who are diagnosed with testicular cancer, a multidisciplinary team approach is essential. This means having a team of specialists, including urologists, oncologists, and fertility experts, working together to create a comprehensive treatment plan. A crucial part of this plan is addressing concerns about fertility. Treatments like chemotherapy can affect sperm production, so fertility preservation options, such as sperm banking, should be discussed before treatment begins.
The future of testicular cancer treatment is bright, with ongoing clinical trials and biomarker research exploring new approaches for advanced and recurrent disease. There is also a growing awareness of the importance of survivorship and addressing the long-term needs of patients, including fertility, sexual function, and the potential for late side effects of treatment.
(Newswise/HG)