The short answer is any male with testicles. Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in males ages 15 to 35, although it can happen at any age. The American Cancer Society estimates about 9,810 new cases in the US in 2026, a little more than one every hour. Before reading further, make sure you can answer the foundational question “What is testicular cancer?”
Several risk factors have been identified that can help show who may be at higher risk. Having one does not mean you will get testicular cancer, and the National Cancer Institute notes that it also develops in people with no known risk factors.
This is a condition in which one or both testicles do not move from the abdomen, where they develop before birth, into the scrotum. It is also called cryptorchidism. The American Cancer Society calls it one of the main risk factors: males with an undescended testicle are many times more likely to get testicular cancer. About 1 in 4 of these cancers develop in the testicle that descended normally.
The National Cancer Institute lists having a testicle that is not normal, such as a small testicle that does not work the way it should.
Having a family history of testicular cancer, especially in a father or brother, increases the risk. Don’t worry: only a small number of testicular cancers occur in families. Most men with testicular cancer do not have a family history of the disease.
Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in males ages 15 to 35. The American Cancer Society puts the average age at diagnosis at about 33. White, American Indian and Alaska Native men have several times the risk of Black, Asian American and Pacific Islander men. The reason is unknown. Risk is also highest in the United States and Europe.
About 3 to 4% of men who have been cured of cancer in one testicle eventually develop cancer in the other testicle. Regular follow-ups are essential for anyone with a history of testicular cancer.
Almost all testicular cancers start in germ cells, the cells that make sperm. Germ cell neoplasia in situ (also called carcinoma in situ) means abnormal germ cells are found inside the testicle. It often causes no lump or symptoms, and the American Cancer Society says it is not clear how often it turns into cancer.
Both the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute list Klinefelter syndrome as a risk factor.
The American Cancer Society notes some evidence that men with HIV, particularly those with AIDS, are at increased risk.
According to the American Cancer Society, a prior injury or trauma to the testicles and repeated activities such as horseback riding do not appear to be related to testicular cancer, and most studies have not found that strenuous physical activity increases the risk.
What about cycling? Lance Armstrong’s diagnosis led many people to wonder whether cycling causes testicular cancer. It has not been shown to. A Dana-Farber Cancer Institute oncologist notes that some studies have found a connection and others have not, and that the reason for any link is unclear.
Most testicular cancer risk factors are beyond your control, but there are steps you can take to look after your health:
Knowing the risk factors for testicular cancer helps you understand your own risk and why early detection matters. If you have concerns about your risk, talk with a healthcare professional, and find support at the Testicular Cancer Foundation.
This page is for general information and does not replace advice from your doctor.
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