5 Myths About Testicular Cancer

The incidence rate of testicular cancer has been increasing in the US and many other countries for several decades. According to the American Cancer Society, there will be about 9,190 new cases of testicular cancer diagnosed in the United States for 2023 resulting in about 470 deaths.

The good news is that testicular cancer usually can be treated successfully, reducing the risk of dying from it to about 1 in 5,000. But, as with any cancer, early detection is key. Delays in diagnosis are often the result of misunderstandings about the nature of testicular cancer. Here we break down a few of the most common myths.

Myth #1: It only occurs in older men

Testicular cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men between the ages of 20 and 34. While the average age of diagnosis is 33, the disease can occur at any age. Approximately 6% of cases are diagnosed in children and teens while another estimated 8% of cases are diagnosed in men 56 or older.

Myth #2: It’s hard to detect   

Most testicular cancers can be found at an early stage when they're small and haven't spread. You may notice a lump or note that one testicle is swollen or larger than normal. Because early detection is important, men should perform routine self-exams. If you notice any changes, contact your doctor to schedule an appointment.

Myth #3: Injuring your testicles increases your risk

No matter how many times you’ve been hit in the testicles or how many hours you’ve spent on a bike or on horseback, none of it increases your risk of developing testicular cancer. In fact, regular exercise can lower your risk of certain cancers. The main risk factors for the disease are family history and being born with an undescended testicle.

Myth #4: Vasectomies cause testicular cancer

Studies have shown that the rate of testicular cancer in men with vasectomies is no higher than in other men who haven’t undergone the procedure. Just in case you need further convincing, consider this: an estimated 500,000 vasectomies are performed in the U.S. every year. If there was a link between the procedure and testicular cancer, the number of diagnoses would be far higher than the projected 9,190 in 2023.

Myth #5: Treatment will hurt your sex life

While treatment for testicular cancer may involve the removal of one or both testicles, the procedure does not typically impact sex drive. In cases where it does (most often when both testicles must be removed), testosterone treatment can restore sex drive.

Anthony Donaldson, MD, is a board-certified urologist at Southwestern Vermont Medical Center.