The testicles produce and store sperm and are the main source of male hormones. Testicular cancer can occur in males of all ages, including infants and elderly men, but is most common in males 15-40 years old. The Facts In the year 2,001, approximately 7,200 males will be diagnosed with testicular cancer and 400 males will die from the disease. When found early, testicular cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer, with an overall cure rate above 90 percent. Testicular cancer incidence has more than doubled among white Americans in the past four decades.
All males are at risk of testicular cancer, regardless of age.
However, some individuals are at greater risk for developing the disease. Normally, the testicles descend into the scrotum before birth. However, in some cases, a testicle will remain in the abdomen area or partially descend before it becomes stuck in the groin area. About 14 percent of testicular cancer cases occur in men with a history of cryptorchidism. The risk remains even after surgery to correct undescended testicles.