April Is Testicular Cancer Awareness Month
There's no better time to spread the word about this disease. Whether you're a patient, a survivor, a caregiver, or just someone who wants to help, we hope you'll find something here to pass on.
Estimated U.S. testicular cancer diagnoses so far in 2026, based on ~9,810 annual cases (American Cancer Society) · Calculated in real time
The delay is the problem
Testicular cancer doesn't kill most men. Waiting does. April exists to close the gap between symptom and doctor.
The 5-Month Problem
On average, men wait five or more months after noticing symptoms before seeing a doctor. Embarrassment, denial, and lack of information are the real killers, not the cancer itself.
The Mental Health Burden
Research shows testicular cancer patients carry the highest psychiatric burden of any cancer type, 98% experience episodes of depression. Awareness month normalizes the full conversation.
It Targets the Invincible
This disease hits men at ages 15-35, the group least likely to expect a cancer diagnosis. Awareness month reaches them before the disease does.
Regular self-exams: step by step
What better time than April to start a monthly habit? It takes less than two minutes.
Choose the Right Time
The best time is during or after a warm shower or bath. The warmth relaxes the scrotum, making it easier to feel for any changes.
Stand in Front of a Mirror
Check for any visible changes in the scrotum, swelling or abnormalities on the skin, before you begin.
Examine One at a Time
Use both hands to examine each testicle individually. Hold it between your thumb and fingers and gently roll it. Feel for any unusual lumps or changes.
Feel for Lumps
Normal testicles should be smooth and oval-shaped. Pay attention to any hard lumps, swelling, or areas that feel different from your established baseline.
Check the Epididymis
The soft, rope-like cord at the back of each testicle is the epididymis, completely normal. Don't mistake it for a lump.
Examine Both
Repeat on the other testicle and compare both. It's normal for one to be slightly larger. What matters is any change from your own baseline.
Look for Changes
A sudden size change, a painless lump, or swelling may be a cause for concern. Note any pain or discomfort, though testicular cancer is often painless.
Monthly, Every Month
Perform a self-exam once a month. A regular schedule helps you know what's normal for you, making it far easier to notice anything that needs attention.
Set a monthly reminder. It takes less than two minutes. Need a physical reminder? Order a free TCF self-exam shower card, and pass one on to someone you care about.
Possible symptoms of testicular cancer
Most signs are subtle, which is exactly why men miss them. Know what to look for.
Lump or Swelling
A testicular lump or swelling in one or both testicles, even if painless, warrants immediate medical evaluation.
Heaviness or Discomfort
A feeling of heaviness or discomfort in the scrotum, even without visible swelling, can be an early indicator.
Lower Abdomen Pain
Pain or ache in the lower abdomen or back, sometimes mistaken for a pulled muscle, can signal spread beyond the testicle.
Size or Shape Change
One testicle becoming noticeably larger, smaller, or firmer than usual. Any change from your established baseline.
Breast Tenderness
Some tumors secrete hormones that cause breast tissue growth (gynecomastia), an easily overlooked but important sign.
Fluid Buildup
A sudden buildup of fluid in the scrotum (hydrocele) can sometimes be associated with testicular cancer.
Painless does not mean harmless. The absence of pain is precisely why testicular cancer is so often caught late. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention right away.
Peak age range for diagnosis
Key Risk Factors
- Undescended testicle (cryptorchidism)
- Father or brother with testicular cancer
- Prior testicular cancer in one testicle
- Most diagnosed men have none of these factors
Fighting the Good Fight Since 2009
Testicular Cancer Foundation (TCF) was founded the same year as Testicular Cancer Awareness Month, and the goal from our start in 2009 was the same as it is today, to save lives. That's why during this month (and every other month) our team of survivors, caregivers, and advocates works hard to make sure we're getting the word out.
Testicular cancer most commonly targets young men, a stage of life that makes it particularly difficult to fathom, let alone deal with, such a serious diagnosis. We were all in that boat ourselves at one point, which is why we understand the challenges so well. And it's how we know that education and support are the two things every patient desperately needs.
That's why we've been committed since our founding to providing the most thorough and up-to-date testicular cancer educational resources available, from diagnosis through treatment and beyond, and to being a port in the storm so nobody faces this alone.
"TCF continues to stand as a guiding light for men navigating one of the toughest battles of their lives. From our earliest days, we've been relentless in raising awareness, providing unwavering support, and building a community that ensures no man has to face testicular cancer alone."
Matt Ferstler, Founder, Testicular Cancer Foundation
"TCF is the leader in the testicular cancer support space, teaching men how to perform self-checks, helping them find it early when it's most treatable, and creating a supportive community for young guys facing this diagnosis."
Jonny Imerman, Founder, Imerman Angels
Awareness Month Fast Facts
Testicular Cancer, The Facts
Current statistics from the National Cancer Institute.
Don't go it alone
One of the most significant things we've found in working with the testicular cancer community is the importance of support, for those navigating this battle and for the people around them.
Survivor Community
We hear stories all the time about how lonely men felt at diagnosis, and how uplifting it was to find people who understood. Mental and emotional health are just as much a part of this journey as physical wellbeing.
Join the Cojone Club →Caregivers & Families
This goes for family members and caregivers too. After all, we all need someone to lean on. TCF has dedicated resources for the people standing beside patients through every stage of the journey.
Caregiver resources →Discord Community
Connect with patients, survivors, and advocates in TCF's active Discord server, a space for real conversations and peer support year-round, not just in April.
Join Discord →Weekly Zoom Support Calls
Young men talking with their doctors and with one another is exactly what awareness month is built for. TCF's weekly Zoom calls are a great place for those conversations to happen.
View upcoming events →"Find support wherever you can find it, in whatever capacity."
Justin Birckbichler, testicular cancer survivor & founder of A Ballsy Sense of Tumor
Join us at the TCF Summit
Where Bonds Are Built, Stories Are Shared, and Hope Is Reignited
Every year, TCF observes Testicular Cancer Awareness Month by hosting the TCF Summit, bringing together patients, survivors, caregivers, and advocates from across the country.
- Powerful testimonials from survivors and caregivers
- Expert education on long-term survivorship and life after TC
- Sessions on sexual health, fertility, and mental wellbeing
- Community with people who have lived the same experience
"[The TCF Summit] was a powerful experience that made me feel like I was part of something special."
Past TCF Summit attendee
If These Balls Could Talk
The comprehensive guide every young man needs to understand, detect, and survive testicular cancer. Written with honesty, humor, and life-saving information by the Testicular Cancer Foundation.
A Guide to Testicular Cancer · Testicular Cancer Foundation · $18.99 · ISBN: 978-1-9698-2620-7
Complete Guide
Everything from risk factors and symptoms to treatment options and survivorship in one place.
Self-Exam Instructions
Step-by-step guidance on monthly testicular self-exams, the key to early detection.
Survivor Stories
Real experiences from men who've faced testicular cancer, offering hope and practical advice.
Treatment Options
Clear explanations of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and what to expect during recovery.
For Caregivers
Guidance for partners, parents, and friends on how to support someone through diagnosis and treatment.
Life After Cancer
Survivorship, fertility, mental health, and thriving after treatment, because life goes on.
Questions worth answering
The things people search for about testicular cancer, answered directly.
When is Testicular Cancer Awareness Month?
April is Testicular Cancer Awareness Month in the United States, observed every year. The Testicular Cancer Foundation was founded in 2009, the same year the awareness month was established, with one goal: save lives through education, awareness, and support.
What color represents testicular cancer awareness?
Blue is the Testicular Cancer Foundation's awareness color. Orchid and purple are also used across the broader community, derived from the Greek word "orchis," meaning testicle, which is the historical origin of the purple tradition in TC awareness.
Is testicular cancer curable?
Yes. Testicular cancer has a 5-year survival rate of over 95% when detected early, making it one of the most treatable cancers. Even in advanced stages it responds well to cisplatin-based chemotherapy. Most men return to a normal, active life after treatment.
What are the first signs of testicular cancer?
The most common first sign is a painless lump or swelling on one testicle. Other signs include heaviness in the scrotum, a change in size or feel, or dull pain in the lower abdomen. See a doctor promptly if you notice any of these, do not wait for pain to develop.
How often should I perform a self-exam?
Monthly. The goal is to establish your baseline so you can notice any changes over time. A self-exam takes less than two minutes. Set a recurring reminder and make it a habit, the same way you'd approach any routine health check.
What makes TCF different from other organizations?
TCF is the only full-time staffed testicular cancer nonprofit in the country, founded in 2009. We built TC Navigator, an AI-powered patient support tool available 24/7, published the book "If These Balls Could Talk," host an annual Summit, and have built a survivor community across all 50 states. We're here 365 days a year, not just in April.
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501(c)(3) · EIN: 27-1348551 · Founded 2009 · Austin, TX