Testicular Cancer Awareness : April 2026

Dr. Arti Rampaul

Insight

5 minutes

28 April 2026

menhealth-1

How common is testicular cancer?

Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in males aged 15 to 39 years, accounting for approximately 14% of all cancers in this age group in the United Arab Emirates, with similar patterns observed across the surrounding region. The rates have increased significantly over the past 30 years in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).

What is testicular cancer?

The testicles are part of the male reproductive system.  They are found in the scrotum and are responsible for producing sperm and testosterone.

Testicular cancer develops when abnormal cells grow in one or both testicles. Importantly, it is a highly curable form of cancer, especially when detected early. Increasing awareness can support earlier detection and better outcomes.

What are the risk factors for testicular cancer?

  • Undescended testes - when one or both testes fail to move into the scrotum before birth. Having an undescended testis increases the risk of testicular cancer compared with normally descended testes.
  • Family history – the risk is higher if you have a father or brother with testicular cancer. However, most men diagnosed do not have a family history.
  • Previous testicular cancer – having cancer in one testicle increases the risk of developing it in the other testicle.
  • Age – the risk peaks between 20 and 45 years, though it can occur in children, teenagers, and older men.
  • Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection – men living with HIV have a higher risk.
  • Race and ethnicity – testicular cancer is more common in White men, although it can affect men of all backgrounds.

What are the symptoms?

  • Testicular swelling or enlargement – painless or painful
  • A testicular lump
  • Fluid in the scrotum
  • Heaviness or a dull ache in the testicle or scrotum
  • A dull ache in the groin or lower abdomen
  • Any change in the size, shape or texture of the testicles
  • An infection of the testis or the tube behind the testicle that does not resolve with treatment
  •  Swelling of breast tissue, which can be an initial sign in up to 10% of cases (see below)

These symptoms can also be caused by non‑cancerous conditions, but they should always be checked by a healthcare professional.

Testicular self-examination

You may choose to examine your testes regularly (about once a month) after puberty – this is particularly important if you have risk factors such as undescended testes.  Self‑examination helps you become familiar with what feels normal, making it easier to notice changes.

Self‑examination is best done during or straight after a warm shower or bath, when the scrotum is relaxed.

  • Hold the scrotum in the palm of your hand and use your fingers and thumb to examine each testicle. 

  • Gently roll the testicle between your fingers to feel the entire surface. A normal testicle feels smooth and firm (but not hard).

  • The tube that carries sperm (epididymis) lies behind the top of each testicle. It feels like a soft, coiled tube and may contain harmless lumps.

  • It is normal for the testicles to be slightly different in size, and for one to hang slightly lower.

Testicular lumps or enlargement are not always cancer, but it is important to see a healthcare professional to determine the cause.

Enlargement of breast tissue in men - Gynaecomastia

Enlargement of male glandular breast tissue, also known as gynaecomastia, can be the presenting feature of testicular cancer in about 10% of cases. 

More commonly, gynaecomastia is related to normal physiological changes and is seen in:

  • newborns

  • during puberty

  • older adulthood

With increasing age, testosterone levels naturally decline, which can contribute to breast tissue enlargement. This hormonal change may be accelerated by excess body weight or regular heavy alcohol consumption. Other causes of breast tissue enlargement include:

  • prescribed medications

  • recreational drugs

  • hormone‑related conditions

  • male breast cancer - around 1% of all breast cancers occur in men

Features suggesting glandular breast tissue rather than fat as the cause of breast enlargement include:

  • a firm, rubbery area beneath the nipple

  • tenderness or pain

  • enlargement affecting one or both breasts

Breast enlargement due to excess fat is more likely in individuals carrying excess weight, usually affects both breasts equally, and is painless.

Seek advice from your healthcare professional if you notice:

  • Rapid breast enlargement

  • Persistent enlargement

  • Associated pain or discomfort

  • Enlargement affecting only one side

  • Any new or concerning changes

Take-away message

Testicular cancer is highly curable when detected early. Improving awareness of symptoms and encouraging timely medical review can support early diagnosis and treatment.

Any questions?

If you have any questions or comments, please write to us on [email protected]

References

  1. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/testicular-cancer
  2. Testicular Cancer | American Cancer Society
  3. Testicular Cancer Awareness — Testicular Cancer Foundation
  4. Selection of men for investigation of possible testicular cancer in primary care: a large case–control study using electronic patient records | British Journal of General Practice
  5. Gynaecomastia | The BMJ

Disclaimer: 

The content in this article is for general informational purpose and is not meant to replace or substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  Always consult a qualified healthcare professional with any questions or concerns about your health.