Know the Risk Factors for Testicular Cancer: Are You at Risk?

Testicular cancer is a relatively rare but highly treatable condition, especially when detected early. It is the most common cancer in males aged 15-35, but all men should be aware of the risk factors that could increase their chances of developing this disease. Understanding these risks can empower individuals to take proactive steps toward early detection and prevention.

Who Is at Risk?

While any male can develop testicular cancer, certain factors significantly increase the likelihood:

• Age: The majority of cases occur in men aged 15-35, though it can happen at any age^1,3,6.
• Family History: A family history of testicular cancer, especially in a father or brother, raises the risk. Men with a sibling who had testicular cancer face an 8-12 times higher risk^2,5,8.
• Undescended Testicle (Cryptorchidism): Men with a history of undescended testicles are 3 to 17 times more likely to develop testicular cancer. Corrective surgery may not eliminate this risk but allows for better monitoring^1,6,10.
• Race and Ethnicity: White males are 4-5 times more likely to develop testicular cancer compared to Black or Asian men. This disparity is particularly pronounced in Western countries like the U.S.^3,6.
• Personal History: Having had testicular cancer in one testicle increases the risk of developing it in the other^3,9.
• Medical Conditions: Certain conditions like Klinefelter syndrome, HIV infection, or abnormal gonadal development also elevate risk^7,10.

What About Lifestyle and Environmental Factors?

While lifestyle factors like diet or exercise have not been definitively linked to testicular cancer, some studies suggest that exposures during early life—such as low birth weight or perinatal complications—might play a role in increasing risk^10,11. However, myths about activities like cycling or injuries causing testicular cancer remains unproven.⁶.

Why Awareness Matters

Despite these risk factors, many men diagnosed with testicular cancer have no identifiable risks. This highlights the importance of regular self-examinations and consultations with healthcare providers if abnormalities are detected.

Steps You Can Take

1. Self-Exams: Perform monthly self-examinations to detect lumps or changes in your testicles.
2. Regular Check-Ups: Discuss your family history and any concerns with your doctor.
3. Stay Informed: Learn about symptoms such as swelling, pain, or heaviness in the scrotum.

By understanding these risk factors and taking proactive measures, men can reduce their chances of late-stage diagnosis and improve outcomes. Early detection saves lives—so ask yourself: Are you at risk?

Resources 

1.) UMM Health Available at: Testicular Cancer Risk Factors and Early Detection | UMM Health. Accessed May 2023.

2.) British Journal of Cancer Available at: Family history of cancer and risk of paediatric and young adult’s testicular cancer: A Norwegian cohort study | BJC. Accessed May 2023.

3.) Testicular Cancer Society. Available at: Who Is At Risk for Testicular Cancer? | testicularcancer.org. Accessed May 2023.

4.) Johns Hopkins Medicine. Available at: Testicular Cancer Risk Factors | Johns Hopkins Medicine. Accessed May 2023.

5.) Nuts and Bolts | Movember Available at: Is Testicular Cancer Hereditary? | Nuts and Bolts. Accessed April 2025.

6.) Testicular Cancer Society. Available at: Risk Factors, Causes & Stats – Testicular Cancer Society. https://testicularcancersociety.org/pages/risk-factors-causes-stats. Accessed April 2025.

7.) Illinois Department of Public Health. Available at: Testicular Cancer.  Accessed April 2025.

8.) American Academy of Family Physicians. Available at: Family History as a Risk Factor for Testicular Cancer. Accessed April 2025.

9.) Advanced Urology Institute. Available at: What Are the Risk Factors of Testicular Cancer That Men Should Know? | Advanced Urology Institute. Accessed April 2025.

10.) PMC PubMed Central. Available at: Enhanced detection of bladder cancer using blue light cystoscopy: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Accessed April 2025.

11.) PMC PubMed Central. Available at: Notions of identity, dignity, and the ethics of suicide: a comparison of the views of laypersons and physicians. Accessed April 2025.