Attitudes about Testicular Self-Examination among Polish Males.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Epidemiological data indicate an increased incidence of testicular cancer (TC), making it the most common malignant tumor in men from aged 15-45. Oncological and urological associations recommend that men with specific TC risk factors should regularly perform a testicular self-exam (TSE). The aim of the study was to discover the attitudes among Polish males regarding TSE and factors (environmental, social, educational) that affect intention to perform TSE. METHODS: An original survey containing 21 questions was used to conduct a study among the Polish branch of VW (Volkswagen Poland) employees. RESULTS: A total of 522 fully completed questionnaires were collected. The mean age of the surveyed respondents was 32 years. Information about TC and how to perform TSE was obtained by 34.4% (n = 185) of the men. It was shown that the following factors increase men's intention to perform TSE TC in their family member (p < 0.05; HR = 5.9; 95% CI 1.5-23.0), GP's(General Practitioner) recommendations (p < 0.001; HR = 6.8; 95% CI 3.2-14.3), concern expressed by their partner (p < 0.001; HR = 3.3; 95% CI 2.1-5.3), and social campaigns (p < 0.001; HR = 2.6; 95% CI 1.5-4.6). CONCLUSIONS: Approximately half of young polish males do not perform TSE. Access to information on TC prevention is limited. Further action is needed to improve men's awareness of TC and TSE.