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Cancer of the testicle

The testicles are part of the male reproductive system. They produce sperm and the male hormone testosterone. They lie outside the body in a sac of loose skin (the scrotum) under the penis. They are soft and oval shaped, but they are not identical – one normally hangs a little lower than the other.

Cancer of the testicle (also called testes) is quite rare – it accounts for about 1-2% of all cancers in men. There are approximately 2000 new cases per year in the UK. This number is rising, but detection and new improved treatments the chances of a recovery are high – the survival rate is 95%. It is important that all men check their testicles regularly (see prevention).

Cancer of the testicle is most common in younger men and is the biggest cause of cancer-related death in 15 to 35 year-old males.