Skip to Main Content
Young runner stretching his shoulder before a run.

Self-Check for Testicular Cancer


Testicular cancer is the most common cancer of younger men between age 30-34, and it’s the most common cancer in men. However, 6% of testicular cancers do occur in children and teens, and 7% occur in people over 55. But, it's still a good idea to do a self-check which is a really easy and free way to screen yourself for cancer that is very curable, especially if caught early.

How to Do a Self-Exam

So when you're doing a self exam, it's really simple and usually you're in the shower so everything is accessible. What I recommend is placing two fingers underneath, and then just roll the testicle around in your finger. You don't have to squeeze, and it doesn't have to be painful at all, but things you want to feel and watch out for include:

  • Any lumps or bumps or new growths
  • Any asymmetry where one is bigger than the other
  • Something that's changed over the course of the last month

You want to be sure to check both of them thoroughly. You want to be sure to roll it all the way around so that you can feel you know the full surface of the testicle; it is basically the men's version of the breast exam that women have to do every month. A once a month self-check if you pay attention to what you're doing should be adequate. It is very simple self-check that can possibly save your life.

For more questions, reach out to your Primary Care provider.

Carlos Prendes, MD
Carlos Prendes, MD

Carlos Prendes, MD is a Family Medicine Provider at CHI Health.

Related Articles

Keep Your Hands Happy and Healthy: A Winter Safety Blog

JAN 15, 2026

Winter brings beautiful snowy landscapes and cozy evenings, but the cold, dry air—indoors and out—can be harsh on our hands, leading to dryness, cracking, and even more serious issues like frostbite. Protecting your hands is crucial for comfort and s...

Read More

Beyond the BMI: Why Weight Management is More Than a Number

JAN 08, 2026

While BMI can be a useful screening tool for populations, relying solely on this single number to define an individual's health and dictate weight management strategies is outdated and often misleading.

Read More

Separating Fact From Fiction: Common Misconceptions About Bariatric Surgery

JAN 06, 2026

Let's debunk some of the most common misconceptions about bariatric surgery and illuminate who it's truly designed to help.

Read More