Risk factors
Age
Testicular cancer is diagnosed more frequently in the young and middle-aged than in elderly men. It is most common in men aged between 15-44.
Undescended testis at birth
A significant risk factor, this condition may increase the risk of testicular cancer by five to ten times.
Family history
Inherited genetic factors are important in testicular cancer. Having a father, brother or son who has had testicular cancer increases the risk of getting the disease. If you have a brother affected with testicular cancer you are up to 10 times more likely to also get the disease than a man without any family history. This risk is exceptionally high when compared to other cancer types.
Previous testicular cancer
Having had testicular cancer before increases the risk of developing cancer in the other testicle. However, cancer in both testicles is extremely rare.
Race and ethnicity
Testicular cancer is most common in Caucasians. With the exception of New Zealand Maoris, the disease is rare in non-Caucasian populations.
We do not know enough about what causes testicular cancer to occur or how to prevent it. Everyman is carrying out the research to find the answers.
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