Testicular cancer screening in men

Testicular cancer is not common. It is often first discovered by the man himself, or his sex partner, as a lump or enlarged swollen testicle. In the early stages of testicular cancer, the lump, which may be about the size of a pea, usually is not painful. Testicular cancer found early and treated promptly has a very high cure rate.

Medical organizations have different recommendations for screening for testicular cancer.

• The American Cancer Society recommends regular testicular examinations for all men between the ages of 15 and 40. ¹
• Experts disagree about the value of regular testicular self-examination (TSE). Some health professionals recommend that men between the ages of 15 and 40 perform monthly testicular self-examination. However, this is controversial. Many health professionals do not believe monthly TSE is necessary for men at average risk of developing testicular cancer. Monthly TSE may be recommended for men at high risk of developing testicular cancer; this includes men with a history of an undescended testicle or a family or personal history of testicular cancer. The Canadian Cancer Society recommends monthly testicular self-examination (TSE) for all men 15 years of age and older.²
• The Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care (CTFPHC) believes there is insufficient evidence to recommend for or against routine testicular examination or testicular self-examination in men who have a low risk of developing testicular cancer. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends against routine screening for testicular cancer in teen and adult men who have no symptoms of cancer. The USPSTF recommends that men who have an increased risk of developing testicular cancer talk to their health professionals about regular screening.³

Author:	Douglas Dana Kathe Gallagher, MSW	Last Updated: April 12, 2007
Medical Review:	Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine Andrew Swan, MD, CCFP, FCFP - Family Medicine Christopher G. Wood, MD, FACS - Urology/Oncology
© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.