Awareness of Testicular Cancer and Testicular Self-Examination in Male Population of Punjab, Pakistan; a Multicentric Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Testicular cancer (TC) is a significant health concern among young and middle aged men, necessitating early detection through testicular self-examination (TSE). However, awareness gaps regarding TC and TSE persist, highlighting the need for targeted educational interventions.

Methods: A national multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted from March 1, 2024, to April 10, 2025, among 377 eligible male participants (aged ≥18 years) across Punjab, Pakistan. Participants were recruited using convenience sampling through an online questionnaire that was made via questions from standardized tool of WHO for Testicular self examination and testicular cancer. Then validated by Chronbach apha. Eligibility criteria included males residing in Pakistan, aged 18 years or older, with the ability to provide informed consent. A minimum sample size of 384 was estimated using OpenEpi at a 95% CI and 5% margin of error; 430 responses were received, of which 377 were analyzed after exclusions. Age-disaggregated and demographic analyses were performed. Associations between demographic factors and awareness/practices of TC and TSE were examined using Chi-square tests.

Results: The median age was 22 years (IQR 21–23). Nearly half (49.9%) of the participants had only limited knowledge of TC, while 30% were completely unaware. Awareness of TSE was even lower, with two-thirds of participants (67%) reporting they had never heard of it. Awareness of both TC and TSE was significantly higher among married participants, older adults (>30 years), and those affiliated with healthcare (p < 0.001). Factors influencing non-practice included lack of knowledge (84%) and fear of discovering a lump (68%).

Conclusion: The study highlights the need for targeted educational strategies to enhance TC and TSE awareness. Incorporating TC and TSE topics into healthcare curricula and using social media for public health campaigns can significantly improve knowledge and encourage proactive health behaviors. Addressing perceptual biases and focusing on education are essential for better public health outcomes through early detection and management of testicular cancer.

Testicular cancer, Self-testicular examination, Awareness

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