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TESTICULAR CANCER: SELF-EXAM EARLIER




A lot of Americans have the facts backward when it comes to testicular cancer. Most people think it’s something older guys have to worry about, but that’s not true—men between 20 and 40 are actually the most at risk. A new survey from Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center found that this confusion could be costing lives, since catching the disease early makes a huge difference.

Testicular cancer isn’t rare: it affects nearly 10,000 adults in the U.S. every year. Still, just 13% of the adults surveyed knew that the disease most often strikes men under 40. Even more surprising? About two-thirds thought screenings don’t matter until after 40, even though doctors say that men in their twenties and thirties should be doing self-exams regularly.

Dr. Shawn Dason, a urologic oncologist at OSUCCC – James, says he’s not shocked by the disconnect. “A lot of young men just don’t see something like this coming,” he said. “They’re busy with work or life in general, not thinking about their health.”

The survey polled 1,008 adults and revealed some bright spots: 63% knew that testicular cancer can often be cured if it’s caught early, and over half understood that monthly self-exams are recommended.

“We’re lucky—most cases are caught before the cancer spreads,” Dr. Dason pointed out. “That’s key, because early-stage testicular cancer is highly treatable.”

Younger adults were a bit more up to speed than older folks on one thing: they knew testicular cancer can affect fertility. But a lot of them still believed that symptoms are always painful—a myth that could lead to dangerous delays. “Testicular cancer usually isn’t painful,” Dr. Dason said. “That’s why self-exams are so important. If you feel a lump or notice any changes, don’t wait—talk to your doctor right away.”

About the Survey

The survey was run by SSRS using its Opinion Panel Omnibus between May 2 and May 5, 2025, and included 1,008 U.S. adults, online and by phone. The margin of error is plus or minus 3.6 percentage points.

Want to learn more about cancer care or clinical trials at Ohio State? Visit cancer.osu.edu or call 1-800-293-5066.


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