Can 25 year olds get testicular cancer?
Testicular cancer is the most common cancer among young men, and it is possible for men of any age to get it. While it is rare for men under 25 to get testicular cancer, it does happen. According to the American Cancer Society, testicular cancer is most common in men aged 15–34, and the average age of diagnosis is 33.
Risk Factors
There are certain factors that can increase a man’s risk of developing testicular cancer, including the following:
• Family history: Having a father, brother, or son who has had testicular cancer can increase a man’s risk of developing the disease.
• Undescended testicles: If a man’s testicles did not descend into the scrotum during infancy, this can increase his risk of developing testicular cancer.
• Age: Men aged 15–34 are at the highest risk of testicular cancer.
Signs and Symptoms
The most common symptom of testicular cancer is a lump or swelling in one of the testicles. Other symptoms may include pain or discomfort in the scrotum, a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum, a dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin, and an increase in size of one of the testicles.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If a man suspects he may have testicular cancer, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. The doctor will do a physical exam and may order tests such as an ultrasound, a blood test, or a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
If the diagnosis is testicular cancer, treatment will depend on the stage of the cancer. Surgery to remove the affected testicle is usually the first step, followed by radiation or chemotherapy to destroy any remaining cancer cells. If the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, additional treatment may be necessary.