Assessing the efficiency of methods to teach adolescents about testicular cancer and testicular self-examination

TL;DR

This study compares video and in-person methods to teach adolescents about testicular cancer and self-examination, finding both effective in encouraging the behavior.

Contribution

The study evaluates formal and informal teaching methods for promoting testicular self-examination among male adolescents.

Findings

Both video and face-to-face training significantly increased testicular self-examination among adolescents.

Interactive in-person training using medical models was effective in teaching about testicular cancer.

Tailored video content also proved effective in promoting beneficial behavioral changes.

Abstract

Due to the increasing incidence of testicular cancer (TC), early testicular self-examination (TSE) in adolescent males is crucial for early detection and treatment. However, it is uncertain which method is best for teaching about TC and TSE in this age group. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of formal (face to face with model) and informal (video presentation) approaches in male adolescents about TC and TSE.

This intervention study was conducted in 2 high schools, and included a study group (n = 142) and a control group (n = 102). In the study group, a video was shown to one subgroup of male students (n = 60) about testicular anatomy, cancer, and self-examination, while another subgroup (n = 82) received in-person training on the same topics using a model.

The effectiveness of both trainings was evaluated at the end of the third month. Both trainings were significantly effective (p < 0.05). The number of male adolescents performing TSE increased significantly in both training groups (p < 0.001).

Both video content tailored to the developmental level of the male adolescent group and face-to-face training using interactive and professionally produced medical models were effective in teaching about TC and TSE and can lead to beneficial behavioral changes in performing TSE.