Testicular cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the testicles (testes) — the two glands inside the scrotum that make sperm and male hormones (like testosterone).

Key facts

• It is less common than prostate or bladder cancer.
• Mostly affects younger men (ages 15–35), but it can happen at any age.
• Very , especially when found early.

Types

• Seminomas: usually grow slowly, sensitive to radiation.
• Non-seminomas: tend to grow faster, often spread earlier.
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Risk factors

• Undescended testicle (cryptorchidism)
• Family history of testicular cancer
• Abnormal testicle development
• HIV infection
• More common in white men

Symptoms

• Lump or swelling in one testicle (often painless)
• Feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
• Dull ache in the lower belly or groin
• Pain or discomfort in a testicle or scrotum
• Breast tenderness or growth (rare, from hormone changes)

Diagnosis

• Physical exam
• Ultrasound of the testicles
• Blood tests for tumor markers (AFP, hCG, LDH)
• Surgery (orchiectomy) to remove the testicle and confirm diagnosis

Testicular cancer is cancer that starts in the testicles, usually seen as a painless lump in one testicle. It’s most common in young men and highly curable.