Testicular cancer is one of the most treatable cancers – the 5-year survival rate is around 95%, and over 98% when caught early before it spreads. It is the most common cancer in young men aged 15-44, and the main warning sign is usually a painless lump or swelling in a testicle. A 2-minute monthly self-check is the simplest way to catch it early. This guide covers the symptoms, self-exam, risk factors and treatment.
Last updated: 16 June 2026. Reviewed for medical accuracy by the Even team.
Key takeaways
- Testicular cancer is highly curable – about 95% 5-year survival, over 98% if caught early.
- It mainly affects young men aged 15-44.
- The key sign is a painless lump or swelling in a testicle.
- A monthly 2-minute self-exam is the best early-detection tool.
- See a doctor for any new lump, swelling or heaviness – do not wait.
Symptoms of testicular cancer
- A painless lump or swelling in one testicle (the most common sign)
- A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
- A dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin
- A change in the size, shape or firmness of a testicle
- Sudden fluid build-up or rarely, breast tenderness
How to do a testicular self-exam
Do it once a month, ideally after a warm shower when the skin is relaxed. Roll each testicle gently between thumb and fingers, feeling for any hard lump or change. It is normal for one testicle to be slightly larger or to hang lower. You are simply checking for anything new – a lump, swelling or change in firmness. Anything unusual should be checked by a doctor.
Risk factors
| Risk factor | Notes |
|---|---|
| Undescended testicle (cryptorchidism) | The biggest known risk factor |
| Family or personal history | Higher risk if a father or brother had it |
| Age 15-44 | Most cases occur in this range |
| Abnormal testicle development | Certain conditions raise risk |
Treatment and outlook
Treatment usually involves surgery to remove the affected testicle, sometimes with chemotherapy or radiotherapy depending on the type and stage. Because it responds so well to treatment, the outlook is excellent – especially when found early. Most men go on to have normal fertility and hormone levels with one testicle. Catching it early through self-checks and a routine check-up makes all the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
The main sign is a painless lump or swelling in one testicle. Others include heaviness in the scrotum, a dull ache in the groin or lower abdomen, and a change in size or firmness.
Very. The overall 5-year survival rate is around 95%, and over 98% when caught early before it spreads, making it one of the most curable cancers.
Do a 2-minute self-exam monthly after a warm shower: gently roll each testicle between thumb and fingers, feeling for any new lump, swelling or change, and report anything unusual to a doctor.
It mainly affects young men aged 15 to 44, making it the most common cancer in that age group.
An undescended testicle is the biggest known risk factor, along with family or personal history and abnormal testicle development.
Yes. Most men have normal fertility and hormone levels with one remaining testicle, and the outlook is excellent, especially when caught early.
The bottom line
Testicular cancer is common in young men but among the most curable cancers when caught early. A 2-minute monthly self-check and prompt action on any lump are your best protection. Like breast cancer, early detection is everything. Explore more in our Health section.
Getting checked is easier when care is covered: see health insurance with OPD cover, and expert care at Even Hospital in Bangalore.
Related reading
- Breast cancer: symptoms and early detection
- Medical tests to take before you turn 30
- Annual health check-ups
- More from the Even Health blog
References
- American Cancer Society – testicular cancer survival rates.
- NHS – testicular cancer symptoms and self-examination.
- World Health Organization (WHO) / GLOBOCAN – cancer incidence data.
