Only 36.9 per cent of men have knowledge on how to do a testicular self-examination, according to a study commissioned by The Marigold Foundation.
Dr Vincent Marmara and Dr Danika Marmara today presented the study regarding testicular cancer awareness among men residing in the Maltese Islands.
The survey, first of its kind, was carried out through telephone interview in September 2019. The survey was carried out with 400 individuals amongst the Maltese Male population of 16 years and over. Vincent Marmara said that the younger generation is much more aware of how to do self-examination, when compared to the older generation. 55.4 per cent of 26-35 year olds knew how to do a self-examination test, while 74.7 per cent of the 66+ age group were unaware of how to check for testicular cancer.
“Those individuals with a higher level of education are more aware of how to do a self-examination, when compared to those with a lower level of education. 58.9 per cent of those males with a first degree knew how to do self-examination, while those with just a primary education did not, statistics showing 85.7 per cent did not know.” He also mentioned that students, employees and those with a higher income are more aware of how to do self-examination to check their testicles, when compared to individuals who are unemployed and with a lower income.
Only 9.6 per cent were shown by a doctor how to perform testicular self-examination, which results in a lack of knowledge on testicular cancer. “Men said they never practiced self-examination because they did not know how to do it,” explained Danika Marmara said.
The study showed that 40.9 per cent of all respondents stated that a testicular self-examination should be done once a month, whilst 38.9 per cent thought the practicing of self-examination once a year was enough, which is incorrect. Danika Marmara highlighted that this showed the lack of knowledge and information among the general public on the frequency of performing self-examination can result in late detection of testicular cancer.
93.6 per cent said that they did not have testicular problems and that 87.6 per cent claimed that they did not have any prior history of testicular cancer in their family. “6.2 per cent answered that they did have a history of testicular cancer in their family, although seems like a small percentage, it shows even more that we need such campaigns to promote the importance of self-checking and testicular cancer,” said Vincent Marmara.
The 15-44 age group with the highest incidence of testicular cancer, yet in the study 49.8 per cent assumed there was no particular age group with the highest tendency of testicular cancer; reflecting once more the lack of knowledge among the general public.
Danika Marmara explained some of the early signs and symptoms of testicular cancer, build-up of fluid or a feeling of heaviness or sensitivity in the scrotum, aching in the lower back and the most important early sign is the difference between the testicles and the presence of a lump or swelling in one of the testicles.
“The study highlights that most respondents, 90.2 per cent were ready to perform testicular self-examination on a regular basis to help detect early signs of testicular cancer,” she said. The study also revealed that 97.9 per cent of the respondents deem the need for public information on testicular cancer and self-examination is important.
Michelle Muscat, chairperson of Marigold Foundation also launched the first edition of Movember Rock-Ball as part of the campaign and to raise funds for those cancer patients.