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Although rare, testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young men ages 15-35. A monthly self-examination of the testicles can detect changes in the testicles that could be associated with cancer. If detected early, testicular cancer is one of the most effectively cured cancers. If undetected for an extended period of time, testicular cancer can spread to other parts of the body.
The risk factors for testicular cancer include:
- Undescended testicles in infants and young children.
- Family history of testicular cancer.
- Atrophy (or shrinkage) of testicles due to mumps or other infections.
Be sure to tell your health care provider if you have any of these risk factors. Parents should have infants checked at birth for undescended testicles.
Testicular cancer is often symptomless in early stages. When symptoms do occur, they include:
- Lump on the testicle (most often painless).
- Change in consistency of the testicle.
- Enlargement of a testicle.
- Heavy sensation in the testicle or groin.
- Aching in the lower abdomen or scrotum.
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