In 2004, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) published a Grade D recommendation for both testicular self-examination (TSE) and clinical evaluation to screen for testicular cancer in asymptomatic males. This review committee reaffirmed these recommendations in 2009 and again in 2011 (Testicular Cancer: Screening Release Date: April 2011. Final Update Summary: Testicular Cancer: Screening. U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. September 2016). The 2011 USPSTF review found no significant evidence that would warrant a change from the last full review in 2004. We believe that the USPSTF erred in its assessments. As acknowledged in the task force report, testicular cancer is not believed to be preventable, and treatment of early detected testicular cancer is generally associated with very favorable outcomes; it is our belief therefore that every encouragement should be given to early detection. We are therefore requesting that the USPSTF review the D rating for testicular examination, both in a clinical setting and as self-examination. We are requesting this, as recent studies and public health warrant a change in grade. The new studies build on earlier studies that support the benefits of regular screening by individuals and their physicians. Further, and equally important, we believe that the current grade and attendant information confuses men and boys about the importance of self-care and wellness and continues to inadvertently reinforce negative cultural attitudes. We believe that adjusting the rating to a Grade B is both warranted and necessary.

Testicular cancer (TCa) is the most prevalent neoplasm diagnosed in males aged 15–40 years. Lack of access to care is a key impediment to early-stage TCa diagnosis. Health equity concerns arise, however, as poor access largely manifests within underserved male populations, therefore, placing them at a higher risk to develop late-stage TCa. Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) offers a myriad of male reproductive/sexual health care options, including TCa screening and referral services. Therefore, expanding these amenities in traditionally underserved communities may address the concern of TCa screening opportunities. An ecological analysis was performed using data from the United States Cancer Statistics, American Community Survey, and PPFA databases to assess the impact of TCa upon minority males, identify associations between PPFA services and minority males, and provide future implications on the role PPFA may play in bridging health-care access gaps pertaining to TCa screenings. Results indicate that states with higher rates of poverty and uninsured individuals, as well as specifically Black/African American males, have lower TCa incidence and limited access to screening services. PPFA service presence and Black/African American, as well as uninsured, males had a negative association but revealed positive correlations with TCa incidence. Considering the emerging TCa outcome disparities among minority males, expanding PPFA men’s health services is crucial in providing affordable options to help identify testicular abnormalities that are early stage or carcinoma in situ. Many at-risk males have limited means to obtain TCa screening services. Expanding this discussion could provide a foundation for future advocacy.

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