Testicular cancer
Last update
Testicular cancer is the most common form of cancer among young men and has a very good prognosis. In 2024, 266 new cases of testicular cancer were registered in Norway.
About testicular cancer
Testicular cancer is a rare cancer that usually occurs in men aged 20-40 years. It is the most common cancer in men between 15 and 49 years old.
More than 90 percent of testicular tumors are so-called germ cell tumors, which develop from cells that produce sperm. These tumors are divided into two main types: seminoma and non-seminoma.
Treatment for testicular cancer depends on the type of cancer and the extent of the disease. Some patients are followed up with only surgery, while others are offered additional treatment with chemotherapy and, in rare cases, radiation therapy.
Key figures testicular cancer 2024
Number of new cases
266
Rates - number of cases per 100,000
9.4
Five-year relative survival (2020-2024)
99.1 %
Cancer survivors
9,068 people as of December 31, 2024
Deaths (2023)
4 people
Cumulative risk of developing testicular cancer by age 80 (2020-2024)
0.8 %
Risk factors
One reason for the development of testicular cancer may be that the testicles did not descend into the scrotum before birth (cryptorchidism), and lie in the groin or higher up. The risk increases if the testicle is not operated into the scrotum before puberty.
Furthermore, underdeveloped testicles (gonadal dysgenesis), which are different types of errors in the distribution of the sex chromosomes, can increase the risk of developing testicular cancer.
Reduced sperm quality is associated with an increased risk.
Cancer in one testicle gives an increased risk of getting cancer in the other testicle
HIV infection increases the risk of developing testicular cancer.
Environmental factors are suspected as contributing factors due to large geographical differences in incidence. The environmental impact already occurs in fetal life while the testicles are developing.
Testicular cancer can be hereditary. If the father has testicular cancer, the risk of testicular cancer increases by 4-6 times for the son. In case of illness in a brother, the risk is increased by 8–10 times.
Source: kreftforeningen.no
Questions about cancer
Our professionals do not answer questions about diagnosis, investigation, treatment, and follow-up from patients or their relatives.
Inquiries about this information should be directed to your general practitioner, treating institution, or the Norwegian Cancer Society's advisory service at phone: +47 21 49 49 21.