Testicular Cancer Screening: What to Know About Early Detection
Testicular Cancer Screening: What to Know About Early Detection
Written by: Jordan Stachel, MS, RDN, CPT
Testicular cancer is the most common cancer among young men ages 15 to 45 in the United States.[1,2,3] 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.[1] The two main types of cancers are seminomas (which grow slowly and are more responsive to treatment) and non-seminomas (which grow more quickly).[2]
It typically affects men in their teens to early 40s, though it can occur at any age.[1,2,3]
Who Is at Risk for Testicular Cancer?
Several factors can increase your risk, including:[2,3]
- 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, testicular cancer often develops in men without any known risk factors.[3]
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.[4]
Routine screening is not recommended because there is no substantial evidence that it 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.[4,5]
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?
You can take action to detect testicular cancer through self-exams and evaluations by a healthcare provider.
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.[5]
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 to hang lower than the other.
If you notice a firm lump, a feeling of heaviness, or discomfort, reach out to a healthcare provider.
Physical Exam by a Healthcare Provider
During a routine checkup, a healthcare provider may perform a testicular exam to check for swelling or abnormalities. If they find something unusual, they’ll typically order follow-up tests.[5]
Diagnostic Tests
If your provider suspects testicular cancer, they may recommend several tests that can help confirm a diagnosis.[6]
Scrotal Ultrasound
A scrotal ultrasound is a painless imaging test that uses sound waves to visualize the testicle and identify masses.[6]
Blood Tests for Tumor Markers
Certain substances (tumor markers) can be elevated in people with testicular cancer, including:[6]
- 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:[3]
- 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 testicular cancer can spread to other parts of the body—such as the lungs or lymph nodes—early detection improves outcomes significantly.[3]
Is Testicular Cancer Screening Possible at Home?
There is no approved at-home diagnostic test, but 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.[1]
How Much Does Testicular Cancer Screening Cost?
If performed in a healthcare provider’s office, a testicular exam is usually part of a routine physical and may be covered by insurance. Costs for diagnostic testing such as ultrasound or tumor marker labs may range from $50 to over $1000 depending on insurance and location.[7]
Myths About Testicular Cancer Screening
There are a few common myths about testicular cancer screening:
Myth 1: Only older men get testicular cancer.
False. It primarily affects young men, especially between 15–45.[2]
Myth 2: A lump always means cancer.
False. Many lumps are benign, but any change should be evaluated by a provider.
Myth 3: Blood tests can screen for testicular cancer.
False. Tumor markers help diagnose and monitor testicular cancer but are not used for screening.[6]
FAQs: Common Questions About Testicular Cancer Screening
Is there a recommended screening test for testicular cancer?
No. There is no official screening test recommended for asymptomatic, average-risk individuals. Most organizations advise against routine screening.[1]
How can you test for testicular cancer at home?
There is no at-home diagnostic test, but monthly self-exams can help detect lumps, swelling, or unusual changes. If you notice something abnormal, contact a provider promptly.[5]
What age should testicular cancer screening start?
Routine screening is not recommended at any age, but men ages 15–45 should be aware of symptoms and may benefit from regular self-exams.[3]
Can a blood test detect testicular cancer?
Yes. Tumor marker blood tests may help diagnose testicular cancer if a provider suspects it, but they are not screening tools.[6]
What are signs you should get tested for testicular cancer?
You should see a 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 symptoms do not always indicate cancer, but they should be evaluated.[5]
Does early detection improve outcomes?
Yes. When detected early, testicular cancer has a 5-year survival rate of over 90%.[8] Most cases are highly treatable, especially when found before spreading.[4]
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 may help spark a discussion with your healthcare provider, especially if you are tracking symptoms or personal risk.
Early awareness and consistent monitoring are key to catching changes before they become serious. Explore at-home lab tests from Everlywell to stay informed and empowered about your health.
References
- Testicular cancer screening. Cancer.gov. Published May 8, 2025. Accessed July 19, 2025. https://www.cancer.gov/types/testicular/patient/testicular-screening-pdq
- What is testicular cancer? American Cancer Society. Accessed July 19, 2025. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/testicular-cancer/about/what-is-testicular-cancer.html
- Testicular cancer - Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. Accessed July 19, 2025. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/testicular-cancer-care/symptoms-causes/syc-20352986
- USPSTF Reaffirmation Recommendation Statement. Annals of Internal Medicine. 2011. https://www.acpjournals.org/doi/10.7326/0003-4819-154-7-201104050-00006
- American Cancer Society. Finding testicular cancer early. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/testicular-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/detection.html
- Tests for testicular cancer. Cancer Research UK. Accessed July 19, 2025. https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/testicular-cancer/getting-diagnosed/tests-testicular-cancer
- Cleveland Clinic. Testicular ultrasound. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/testicular-ultrasound
- American Cancer Society. Survival rates for testicular cancer. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/testicular-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/survival-rates.html