Photo Credit: iStock.com/Elena Merkulova

Recently published survey results indicate that more needs to be done to educate US adults about testicular cancer, particularly younger men.

A recent survey commissioned by The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James) shed light on the public’s perceptions of testicular cancer. While nearly 10,000 US adults are diagnosed with the disease each year, the survey results indicate that more needs to be done to educate the public about testicular cancer, particularly among younger men.

Survey Methodology

The survey, conducted by SSRS on its Opinion Panel Omnibus platform, gathered responses from 1,008 adults aged 18 and older. Data collection occurred from May 2 to May 5, 2025, through web and telephone interviews. Margin of error was +/-3.6 percentage points at the 95% confidence level.

Lack of Awareness About Age & Risk

According to survey results, only 13% of respondents correctly identified testicular cancer as most commonly affecting men under 40, even though the disease primarily affects men aged 20 to 40. This knowledge gap is crucial, as early detection and awareness are key to successful treatment.

“In my experience, a lot of men are surprised that testicular cancer is most common among young men,” said Shawn Dason, MD, of OSUCCC, in a press release. “It’s something you’re just not expecting in your twenties or thirties. Many young men’s focus might be on developing their careers and their day-to-day life. That’s a very different track of mind than perhaps your health.”

Self-Exams & Early Detection

The survey also revealed that while 63% of respondents correctly identified testicular cancer as often curable when detected early, just over half (54%) knew that monthly self-exams should be performed.

“We are fortunate in testicular cancer that the vast majority of patients are diagnosed at an early stage,” said Dr. Dason.

Fertility & Misconceptions About Symptoms

According to survey findings, younger Americans, aged 18-29, and adults aged 30-49, were more likely to associate testicular cancer with fertility issues (68% and 61%, respectively). However, these age groups were also more likely to believe that testicular cancer symptoms are always painful, with 18% of younger adults holding this misconception. Testicular cancer often presents with no pain.

“Testicular cancer does not typically come with painful symptoms,” explained Dr. Dason. “That’s why routine self-exams are so important to detect any lumps or changes to the testicle.”

The Need for Increased Education

The findings underscore the need for greater education on testicular cancer, particularly regarding age, symptoms, and the importance of self-exams. By increasing awareness and dispelling myths, more young men could be empowered to take preventive steps, leading to earlier diagnoses and better outcomes.