April is Testicular Cancer Awareness Month. This month, we bring awareness to the early detection and treatment options for testicular cancer.
What is Testicular Cancer?
Testicular cancer forms when cancer cells develop in the tissue of the testicles. The two main types of testicular cancer are seminoma and non-seminoma.
What are the Symptoms of Testicular Cancer?
The most common signs and symptoms of testicular cancer are:
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Swelling or fluid build-up in your scrotum
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A lump in either testicle
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Dull ache in your groin
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Pain or discomfort in your scrotum
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A shrinking testicle
What are the Risk Factors for Testicular Cancer?
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Age: Testicular cancer most commonly affects people between the ages of 15 and 35.
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Race and Ethnicity: Testicular cancer is more common among non-Hispanic white people.
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Family History: People who have a family history of testicular cancer or inherited genetic conditions are at an increased risk.
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Undescended Testicles: Being born with undescended testicles increases your testicular cancer risk.
Can I Prevent Testicular Cancer?
There is no sure way to prevent testicular cancer, but knowing your risk factors allows for early detection.
What are the Treatment Options for Testicular Cancer?
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Surgery: Surgery to remove the cancerous testicle is the most common treatment for testicular cancer.
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What is an Orchiectomy?
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An orchiectomy is a surgical procedure that is used to remove one or both of the testicles because of testicular cancer.
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Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-dose X-rays to kill cancer cells.
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Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses different drugs to kill cancer cells.
If you have any questions about your risk of testicular cancer, talk to your doctor.
published: March 28, 2025, 8:22 p.m.