Testicular Cancer Screening in a Primary Care Setting

Abstract

Testicular cancer most commonly affects younger males, and its incidence has increased in recent years. There is, however, a lack of data documenting the level of testicular cancer screening by physicians in primary-care settings in the U.S. In this retrospective study over a one-year period, we looked at the prevalence of testicular cancer screening in 200 males ages 18 to 39 in a universitybased clinic in Southeast Texas. Thirty-one (15.5%) participants received a testicular examination. Three participants were asked about testicular cancer risk factors, and three had education on screening (one participant had both, for a total of five). Of the three participants receiving screening education, two were taught testicular self-examination by the physician, while the other one was given written materials on screening. These rates of testicular cancer screening are low. Interventions are needed to help improve patient and physician awareness of testicular cancer screening.