Knowledge, attitude and practice towards testicular self-examination among regular undergraduate non-health sciences university students, Debre Tabor, Amhara Regional State, North West Ethiopia

Abstract

Testicular-self-examination (TSE) refers to the procedure in which a man checks the appearance as well as the consistency of his testicles. TSE is a simple, painless procedure, easy-to-learn and requires about three minutes to complete and it is an important clinical tool for early detection of testicular cancer (TC).1,2 It has been recommended that young men between the ages of 15 35 years should practice TSE every month.3 This recommendation is supported by the fact that nine out of every ten TC is first found by the individual himself.4 Worldwide, TC accounts for approximately 1% of all cancers in men and it is increased twofold in the last 40 years.5 The prevalence and incidence of TC in Africa are rising and also the mortality rate of TC in Sub-Saharan Africa is increasing due to poor awareness of TSE.6 In Ethiopia, TC cases account 5.4% of all new male cancer patients aged greater than 15 years in the oncology unit of Black Lion Specialized Hospital; the only oncology unit in Ethiopia.7 Early detection and treatment is very important in TC. One of the method to detect TC is regular self-exam of testicles.8 It is highly recommended to seek medical help if one experiences some of the following symptoms; lump in one testis or hardening of one of the testicles, significant increase or decrease in the size of one testis, abnormal sensitivity, loss of sexual activity, blood in or watery semen, generally feeling tired and buildup of fluid within the scrotum.9 As American Cancer Society (ACS) recommendation, all men should examine their testicles by themselves monthly after puberty.10