Know the facts on testicular cancer

Contributed by Nicholas E. Blonien, D.O.

April is Testicular Cancer Awareness Month, which is particularly important for men serving in our fire service communities due to their increased risk of developing the condition.

Testicular cancer is the most common cancer among young men (average age diagnosed is 33). Studies showing firefighters and military personnel are at an increased risk for testicular cancer due to their exposure to forever chemicals, including a 2023 PBS News article that covered the topic.

Outside of work, non-occupational risk factors for testicular cancer include a history of an undescended testicle, a father or brother with testicular cancer and HIV infection. White, American Indian and Alaska Native men may also be at an increased risk – it’s worth looking into your family’s medical history for general awareness.

The first sign of testicular cancer is usually a lump on the testicle, or a testicle might become swollen or larger over time. Another possible sign is aching in the groin or lower abdomen. For any of these symptoms, it’s important to have a medical evaluation, which may include an ultrasound, bloodwork and imaging to detect any abnormalities and concerns.

If testicular cancer is found, surgery is usually required. Additional treatment may follow if the cancer has spread. The encouraging news is that men with testicular cancer, including cancer that has spread to nearby lymph nodes or other organ systems, have a 95% chance of living for at least five years after their diagnosis. Testicular cancer, when caught early, is very treatable.

Below are five key takeaways for firefighters and their loved ones:

  1. Be aware testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young adult males, with research showing firefighters may be more likely to get it.
  2. Exposure to carcinogenic compounds and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) puts firefighters at increased risk.
  3. Keep a watchful eye out for any changes in testicular shape or size and seek evaluation if changes, new pain or symptoms are noticed.
  4. Catching testicular cancer early is important. The earlier it’s diagnosed; the more successful treatment will be.
  5. While there isn’t clear evidence that modifiable risk factors play a significant role in reducing the chance of getting testicular cancer, staying fit, not smoking, minimizing alcohol consumption, prioritizing sleep and avoiding exposure to carcinogenic compounds are recommended for an overall healthy lifestyle.

Have you been diagnosed with cancer?

As part of the Hometown Heroes Assistance Program, all Minnesota firefighters are automatically enrolled in a statewide Critical Illness insurance policy which covers diagnoses of cancer, cardiac or other critical illnesses, and provides a lump-sum cash payment up to $20,000 to assist with expenses like medical bills and travel costs to and from specialist visits. For more information or to file a claim, call 888-784-6634 or visit securian.com/mnfire-insurance.

Recent News

Miles for MnFIRE Day 5: Groningen to Pine City
September 17, 2025
Miles for MnFIRE Day 4: Sturgeon Lake to Groningen
September 16, 2025
Miles for MnFIRE Day 3: Mahtowa to Sturgeon Lake
September 15, 2025
Miles for MnFIRE Day 2: Esko to Mahtowa
September 14, 2025
Miles for MnFIRE Day 1: Kickoff in Duluth
September 13, 2025
Suicide can affect anyone
September 9, 2025
Comments Box SVG iconsUsed for the like, share, comment, and reaction icons

Our Miles for MnFIRE walkers have completed 94 miles of the 150-mile trek from Duluth to St. Paul -- and they are still smiling!

Here's an on-the-road update from Minnesota firefighters Doug Foote and Kyle Bode as they reflect on crossing the halfway point, a major milestone on day five of their nine-day journey.

Read the full recap on our blog: mnfireinitiative.com/miles-for-mnfire-day-5/
... See MoreSee Less

It's day five of Miles for MnFIRE, and there's still time to contribute!

🔴 Thanks to a generous anonymous donor, all Miles for MnFIRE donations up to $10,000 will be matched dollar for dollar before Sept. 21. That means that if you give now, your impact will be doubled!

🔴 Those who donate $200 or more will receive a special Miles for MnFIRE hat – check out Doug and Kyle rocking their hats below!

Your donations are thoroughly appreciated not only by the walkers, but also by firefighters and their families across the state who receive assistance from MnFIRE year-round. Thank you for your support! mnfireinitiative.com/miles-for-mnfire/
... See MoreSee Less

Its day five of Miles for MnFIRE, and theres still time to contribute!

🔴 Thanks to a generous anonymous donor, all Miles for MnFIRE donations up to $10,000 will be matched dollar for dollar before Sept. 21. That means that if you give now, your impact will be doubled!

🔴 Those who donate $200 or more will receive a special Miles for MnFIRE hat – check out Doug and Kyle rocking their hats below!

Your donations are thoroughly appreciated not only by the walkers, but also by firefighters and their families across the state who receive assistance from MnFIRE year-round. Thank you for your support! https://mnfireinitiative.com/miles-for-mnfire/

It was a hot day, but Minnesota firefighters and Miles for MnFIRE walkers Doug Foote and Kyle Bode completed 18 miles on their more than 150-mile trek from Duluth to St. Paul.

Here are a few photos from day four, which included a visit to Finlayson Elementary. The smiles and cheers from these kids were exactly what our walkers needed to lift their spirits!

Wednesday, Sept. 17, is the biggest day of the walk, covering more than 25 miles between Groningen and Pine City. Let's go!

Read more day 4 highlights here: mnfireinitiative.com/miles-for-mnfire-day-4/
... See MoreSee Less

It was a hot day, but Minnesota firefighters and Miles for MnFIRE walkers Doug Foote and Kyle Bode completed 18 miles on their more than 150-mile trek from Duluth to St. Paul. 

Here are a few photos from day four, which included a visit to Finlayson Elementary. The smiles and cheers from these kids were exactly what our walkers needed to lift their spirits! 

Wednesday, Sept. 17, is the biggest day of the walk, covering more than 25 miles between Groningen and Pine City. Lets go! 

Read more day 4 highlights here: https://mnfireinitiative.com/miles-for-mnfire-day-4/Image attachmentImage attachment+1Image attachment
2 days ago

Firefighters Doug Foote and Kyle Bode are walking more than 150 miles from Duluth to St. Paul this week to raise awareness and funds for firefighter health.

Follow along on their journey and support MnFIRE at mnfireinitiative.com/miles-for-mnfire/.
... See MoreSee Less

Firefighters Doug Foote and Kyle Bode are walking more than 150 miles from Duluth to St. Paul this week to raise awareness and funds for firefighter health.

Follow along on their journey and support MnFIRE at https://mnfireinitiative.com/miles-for-mnfire/.
Load more
Skip to content