Posted on May 30th, 2025
There's a chance that the lump you've been putting off checking may be more serious than you realize. Testicular abnormalities in men exposed to PFAS need to be evaluated immediately, since they may indicate early-stage cancer. The highest rates of testicular cancer occur in men between the ages of 15 and 45.
Testicular cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among active-duty male service members, and approximately 9,720 new cases are expected nationwide across the entire U.S. population in 2025. Over 95% of patients survive if treatment is initiated early.
Consult your doctor immediately if you notice any of these warning signs:
- New lumps or masses in either testicle
- Testicular enlargement or changes in shape
- Dull aching in the groin or lower abdomen
- The scrotum feels unusually heavy
- Sharp pain in the testicle or scrotum
- Breast development or tenderness
- Lower back pain without injury
PFAS chemicals increase testicular cancer risk in multiple ways
New research has established clear connections between PFAS exposure and testicular cancer. Higher blood concentrations of perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), a kind of PFAS, were associated with an increased risk of cancer among Air Force servicemen.
PFOA contamination was detected in heavily exposed communities for decades by the C8 Health Project, which revealed a threefold increase in cancer risk among exposed residents. According to multiple population studies, testicular cancer is the most strongly associated with PFAS exposure.
Synthetic chemicals work differently from traditional carcinogens. PFAS compounds alter cellular behavior through epigenetic changes rather than directly damaging DNA. They interfere with normal testicular development processes and disrupt hormone balance, creating a favorable environment for cancer cells.
Who faces the highest testicular cancer risk from PFAS exposure?
Communities across the country are affected by PFAS contamination in many ways. Since these chemicals accumulate in the body over time, past exposures are relevant to current health risks. The following groups are at risk for elevated exposure:
- Active and retired military personnel from contaminated bases
- Family members of veterans who lived at contaminated bases
- Firefighters using PFAS-containing foam products
- Residents in close proximity to contaminated bases
Legal options for PFAS-related testicular cancer victims
The financial and emotional burden of a testicular cancer diagnosis is significant, as well as the loss of wages. If PFAS exposure has caused your illness, you may be entitled to compensation for your treatment expenses, lost income, and pain.
The attorneys at our firm have represented victims of toxic exposure for the past three decades, and we offer free case evaluations to help you determine your legal options. In order to build your case, we will need documentation showing PFAS exposure as well as medical records stating the testicular cancer diagnosis.
