While testicular cancer is relatively rare, certain factors can significantly raise risks for some men. Fewer than 9000 new testicular cancer cases are confirmed in the U.S. each year, but for men between 20 and 40 years old, it’s one the most common forms of cancer diagnosis. Among that group, other factors can further raise the chances of diagnosis. “There are a few risk factors for testicular cancer,” Shawn Dason, MD, says. “These include family history, infertility and a prior history of a testicle that wasn’t in the scrotum — especially as a child — that hasn’t been corrected. Click to learn more about testicular cancer treatment at The Ohio State University. When testicular cancer forms, it can present a variety of symptoms, including pain, lumps, swelling and other changes to the either testicle, as well as a buildup of fluid in the scrotum and aching in the abdomen and groin. Testicular cancer research has led to significant improvements in outcomes for patients, who can increase their chances of successful treatment through early diagnoses. Doctors recommend that men and boys aged 14 and older conduct regular testicular self-exams, which involve feeling each testicle once a month to check for any changes. Dason and his OSUCCC – James colleagues are working to bring new therapies to patients through research, including an examination of the potential role of microRNA in testicular cancer diagnosis and management. Click to learn about cancer clinical trials at the OSUCCC – James.