Testicular Cancer Screening: What to Know About Early Detection
Testicular Cancer Screening: What to Know About Early Detection
Testicular cancer is rare but remains the most common cancer among young men ages 15 to 35 in the United States. Fortunately, it’s also one of the most treatable cancers - especially when detected early. But how do you screen for testicular cancer, and when should you be concerned?
Here’s what you need to know about testicular cancer screening, early detection methods, and when to talk to a healthcare provider.
What Is Testicular Cancer?
Testicular cancer occurs when abnormal cells develop in one or both testicles. Most testicular cancers start in germ cells, which are responsible for producing sperm. The two main types are seminomas (which grow slowly and are more responsive to treatment) and non-seminomas (which grow more quickly).
It typically affects men in their teens to mid-40s, though it can occur at any age.
Who Is at Risk for Testicular Cancer?
Several factors can increase your risk, including:
- A history of undescended testicle (cryptorchidism)
- Family history of testicular cancer
- HIV infection
- Race (more common in white men)
- Personal history of testicular cancer
However, the condition often develops in men without any known risk factors.
Are There Routine Screening Guidelines for Testicular Cancer?
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) does not recommend routine screening for testicular cancer in men without symptoms or risk factors. This includes screening via physical exam or self-exam.
Why? There’s no evidence that routine screening improves outcomes or reduces mortality. Testicular cancer is highly treatable, even in later stages, and most cases are found by the individual - not through routine screening.
That said, being familiar with your body and knowing what’s normal for you is critical—especially for early detection.
How Is Testicular Cancer Detected?
1. Testicular Self-Exams
Though not formally recommended by the USPSTF, many healthcare professionals still encourage monthly self-exams to help individuals notice any unusual changes early.
To perform a self-exam:
- After a warm shower, stand and gently roll each testicle between your thumb and fingers.
- Look for lumps, swelling, or a change in size or shape.
- It’s normal for one testicle to be slightly larger or hang lower than the other.
If you notice a firm lump, a feeling of heaviness, or discomfort, reach out to a healthcare provider.
2. Physical Exam by a Healthcare Provider
During a routine checkup, a doctor may perform a testicular exam to check for swelling or abnormalities. If they find something unusual, they’ll typically order follow-up tests.
3. Diagnostic Tests
If testicular cancer is suspected, several tests can help confirm a diagnosis:
A. Scrotal Ultrasound
A painless imaging test that uses sound waves to visualize the testicle and identify masses.
B. Blood Tests for Tumor Markers
Certain substances (tumor markers) can be elevated in people with testicular cancer, including:
- Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)
- Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)
- Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)
These blood tests help determine the type and stage of cancer, but they are not used for screening.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms?
The most common early signs of testicular cancer include:
- A painless lump or swelling in the testicle
- A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
- Dull ache in the abdomen or groin
- Sudden collection of fluid in the scrotum
- Pain or discomfort in a testicle or the scrotum
Because it can spread to other parts of the body, such as the lungs or lymph nodes, early detection improves outcomes significantly.
Is Testicular Cancer Screening Possible at Home?
While there is no approved at-home diagnostic test, monthly self-exams are the best way to stay alert to changes. If you notice something unusual, a provider can perform imaging or lab tests for confirmation.
What Age Should You Consider Screening?
There are no formal age-based guidelines for screening, but men between ages 15 and 45 should consider learning how to do testicular self-exams—especially if they have risk factors.
How Much Does Testicular Cancer Screening Cost?
If performed in a doctor’s office, a testicular exam is usually part of a routine physical and may be covered by insurance. Costs for additional testing (like ultrasound or tumor markers) may range from $50 to $300+ depending on insurance coverage and location.
Myths About Testicular Cancer Screening
Myth 1: Only older men get testicular cancer.
False. It primarily affects young men, especially between 15–35.
Myth 2: A lump always means cancer.
False. Many lumps are benign, but any change should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Myth 3: Blood tests can screen for testicular cancer.
False. Tumor markers are used to help diagnose and monitor testicular cancer, but they’re not used for screening.
FAQs: Common Questions About Testicular Cancer Screening
Is there a recommended screening test for testicular cancer?
Currently, there is no official screening test recommended for testicular cancer in men who do not have symptoms or known risk factors. Most organizations, including the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), advise against routine screening because there’s no evidence it improves outcomes in average-risk individuals.
How can you test for testicular cancer at home?
There is no at-home diagnostic test for testicular cancer. However, monthly testicular self-exams can help you detect lumps, swelling, or other changes. These should be done after a warm shower when the scrotal skin is relaxed. If you notice anything unusual, contact a healthcare provider promptly.
What age should testicular cancer screening start?
Routine screening isn’t recommended at any age for the general population. However, men between the ages of 15 and 45 - the age range most affected by testicular cancer - should be aware of the signs and symptoms and may benefit from performing regular self-exams.
Can a blood test detect testicular cancer?
Yes. If a healthcare provider suspects testicular cancer, they may order blood tests that check for tumor markers such as alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). These are used to help diagnose and monitor testicular cancer, not for routine screening.
What are the signs you should get tested for testicular cancer?
You should see a healthcare provider if you notice:
- A painless lump or swelling in the testicle
- A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
- Pain or discomfort in a testicle or groin
- Sudden buildup of fluid in the scrotum
- Enlargement or shrinking of a testicle
These signs don’t always indicate cancer, but they should be evaluated.
Does early detection of testicular cancer improve outcomes?
Yes. When detected at an early stage, testicular cancer has a 5-year survival rate of over 95%. Most cases are highly treatable, especially when caught before the cancer spreads beyond the testicle.
How Everlywell Can Help
While Everlywell does not offer a test specifically for testicular cancer, our Testosterone Test can help you monitor key biomarkers linked to reproductive health. These results can be a helpful tool for starting a discussion with your provider, especially if you’re noticing symptoms or tracking your risk.
Early awareness and consistent monitoring are key to catching changes before they become serious. Explore Everlywell’s at-home lab tests to stay informed and empowered about your health.