The average age for testicular cancer in the UK now is 28 and it is most common in ages 14-40 however, anyone with testicles can be diagnosed. In the UK around 2300 men a year are being diagnosed.
Cancer of the testicles is also one of the most treatable forms of cancer with over 95% of men making a full recovery. As with most cancers, the earlier the condition is detected and diagnosed, the better your chance of recovery.
How to check for testicular cancer
From puberty onwards it is important to check for any changes regularly. Doing a self-examination regularly means you will get to know what feels normal for you.
For information on how to check testicles for signs of cancer check out this video in your body Testicular cancer | how to check testicles | self exam (testicularcanceruk.com)
It is important that if you are a trans woman and have testicles that you also carry out these checks or if this makes you feel uncomfortable or upset to check this part of your body, then try not to stop this discussing things with a health care professional or gender identity well-being service.
What are the symptoms of testicular cancer?
The most common symptom of testicular cancer is a lump, or a hard, pea-sized swelling, in one of your testicles. You should also be aware that testicular cancer can also cause other symptoms, including:
- A dull ache, or sharp pain, in your testicles, or scrotum, which may come and go
- A feeling of heaviness in your scrotum
- A dull ache in your lower abdomen
- A sudden collection of fluid in your scrotum
- Fatigue
- Generally feeling unwell
You should consult your GP immediately if you have a lump or swelling in your testicle to help determine whether the lump is cancerous.
Further support
NHS – Information about different types of cancer
Macmillan Cancer Support – How to check for testicular cancer
Ref: WPW0132 this information was updated September 2024.
