Testicular cancer

Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young men aged 15 to 29 years.

For any questions:

The American Cancer Society considers that testicular self-examination has not been sufficiently studied to demonstrate that it reduces the risk of mortality linked to this type of cancer, and therefore does not recommend it. However, it does recommend that an examination should be performed by the family doctor as part of the annual checkup. On the other hand, many doctors encourage men to perform an examination of their testicles once a month in order to detect any abnormalities as of the age of 15. This is especially indicated for men presenting risk factors, the most common being:

  • Cryptorchidism (undescended testicle at birth)
  • Family history of testicular cancer
  • Prior history of testicular cancer
  • Problems with testicular development during childhood.

If you have any of these risk factors, please talk to your doctor or contact our nurse at the Info-cancer Hotline at 1-800-363-0063.

What is testicular self-examination?

Regular testicular self-examination is important for young men, especially men at risk for testicular cancer. Knowing the usual size, shape and presence of bumps can help determine if something is wrong. Testicular self-examination can help men to quickly observe changes in their testicles, which can then be examined by a doctor.

You can see a step-by-step guide by visiting the website at testicularcancercanada.com.

 For more information, call the Info-cancer Hotline at 1-800-363-0063.