What is testicular cancer?
Testicular cancer occurs when abnormal cells within the testicles grow in an uncontrolled way.
The testicles are part of the male reproductive system. They are located behind the penis in a sac of skin called the scrotum.
Testicles are where sperm are produced and stored. The testicles are also involved in producing testosterone.
Testicular cancer primarily affects germ cells and can be classified into seminoma and non-seminoma types, with variations within each category. Other less common types include stromal tumors and carcinoma in situ.
Explore statistics on testicular cancer, including the number of new cases, deaths, survival rates, and overall prevalence.
Having an undescended testicle, family history of testicular cancer, abnormal testicle development, hypospadia, previous cancer diagnosis, HIV/AIDS, or infertility can increase the risk of developing testicular cancer.
Individuals with undescended testicles, family history of testicular cancer, abnormal testicular development, hypospadia, previous testicular cancer diagnosis, HIV/AIDS, or infertility may have increased risk for testicular cancer.
Doctors diagnose testicular cancer through physical exams, imaging tests, blood tests, and sometimes biopsies, and they stage the cancer based on its size and spread to determine the best treatment.
Treatment for testicular cancer depends on various factors and may involve surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, with potential side effects such as erectile dysfunction and infertility.
Living with cancer can be challenging, but you can find support from family, friends, health professionals, and cancer support organizations to help you cope with the emotional, physical, and practical issues related to your diagnosis.
Research is ongoing to find new ways to diagnose and treat different types of cancer.
Details for professionals seeking comprehensive information on testicular cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Last updated 2 October 2024
