Testicular self-examination - Essay Example

Testicular self-examination due: Even though, relatively rare compared to other types of cancers, testicular cancer is the most common cancer among men and affects mostly males between 15 to 35 years. However, it falls under the class of one of the most treatable cancers and chances of recovery increase immensely when it is detected early. One of the most effective ways of detecting testicular cancer in its early stages is through testicular self-examination. This is a simple procedure similar to breast self-examination in women that can be done in private (Jarvis, 2012).

Teaching testicular self-examination to men within that age bracket is important because it has been proven that men rarely seek medical advice unless they have serious symptoms and this contributes to the high morbidity and mortality of men due to cancer, as compared to women (American Nurses Association, 2010). Interventions are, therefore, necessary to reduce the current trend of mortality associated with testicular cancer in males. They should however be aimed at behavior change as opposed to information insemination since previous interventions have shown that although men may be educated on how to perform the testicular self-examination, just a few of them actually do it.

Availing information on testicular cancer and testicular self-examination can have a positive effect on health promoting behaviors in men. This can be done through education using posters and other media such as videos and pamphlets put in strategic places such as in changing rooms and washrooms. Demonstrations using models peer-training and during health check-ups by a physician are other ways in which this information can be availed to the men.In conclusion, it is important that men check their testicles regularly since this can help detect testicular cancer in its early stages and increase chances of recovery (Benjamins, 2010).

Testicular self-examination can help to reduce the incidence of testicular cancer.ReferencesAmerican Nurses Association. (2010). Nursing: Scope and standards of practice. Nursesbooks.orgBenjamins, S. (2010, Jul 27). My Testicular Cancer Diary – Part 5. Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=As9fNsuukmoJarvis, C. (2012). Physical Assessment & Health Examination. St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Saunders.