Testicular Cancer Awareness: Early Detection and Risk Factors

Because early awareness can save lives – especially in April

Every April, we shine a spotlight on a health issue that doesn’t get nearly enough attention—Testicular Cancer. Though it’s one of the rarer cancers, it holds the title as the most common cancer in males aged 15 to 35. The good news? It's highly treatable—especially when caught early.

At We Rise 4 Wellness, we believe knowledge is power. So, let’s talk about how you can recognize the warning signs, understand the risk factors, and protect the men in your life—or yourself.

Why Early Detection Matters

Time is everything when it comes to cancer. Detecting testicular cancer early greatly improves outcomes. In fact, the five-year survival rate for men diagnosed at an early stage is 99%

(American Cancer Society, 2023).

How to Detect It Early

Monthly self-exams are a key tool. Get familiar with the look and feel of your testicles. If something seems different—like a lump, swelling, or a heavy sensation—get it checked.

No formal screening exists for the general population, but men with higher risk should discuss screening with a healthcare provider.

Want to learn how to do a proper self-examination? We've got a full guide for you.

Understanding the Risk Factors

Not everyone has the same level of risk, and knowing what increases your chances can help you stay proactive.

1. History of Undescended Testicle (Cryptorchidism)

Men who had an undescended testicle—especially if untreated—are at higher risk of developing testicular cancer.

(Rajpert-De Meyts et al., 2016, Nature Reviews Disease Primers)

Want to know more about this condition? Read our post on cryptorchidism.

2. Family or Personal History

If a father or brother has had testicular cancer, the risk increases. Also, men who have had cancer in one testicle are more likely to develop it in the other.

(Chia et al., 2010, Journal of Clinical Oncology)

3. Age and Ethnicity

Young men are especially vulnerable. Most cases happen between ages 15 and 35. Also, White men—especially of Northern European descent—are at greater risk.

(McGlynn & Cook, 2009, Future Oncology)

When to See a Doctor

If you notice:

A painless lump or swelling in a testicle

Pain or discomfort in the scrotum

A dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin

Don’t wait. These could be early signs. A doctor may recommend an ultrasound or blood tests for tumor markers like AFP, hCG, and LDH.

(National Cancer Institute, 2022)

Explore more about tumor markers and how they help in diagnosis.

Bottom Line: Be Aware, Be Proactive

Testicular cancer may be uncommon, but it’s very beatable when caught early. The earlier it’s found, the easier it is to treat—and the better the outcome.

So this April, let’s normalize conversations around men’s health. Share this blog. Encourage self-checks. And help us spread awareness that could literally save a life.

Because here at We Rise 4 Wellness, we rise by lifting others—with wisdom, wellness, and well-timed information.

References

American Cancer Society. (2023). Testicular Cancer Survival Rates. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/testicular-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/survival-rates.html

National Cancer Institute. (2022). Testicular Cancer Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version. https://www.cancer.gov/types/testicular/patient/testicular-treatment-pdq

Rajpert-De Meyts, E., et al. (2016). Testicular cancer. Nature Reviews Disease Primers, 2(1), 16096. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrdp.2016.96

Chia, V. M., et al. (2010). Risk of bilateral testicular germ cell tumors. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 28(30), 5155–5160. https://doi.org/10.1200/JCO.2010.29.3870

McGlynn, K. A., & Cook, M. B. (2009). Etiologic factors in testicular germ-cell tumors. Future Oncology, 5(9), 1389–1402. https://doi.org/10.2217/fon.09.103