Patient education section: How can we educate our patients about testicular self-examination?
DOI: 10.22591/magyurol.2026.1.fazekasf.24
Authors:
Fazekas Fruzsina dr.
Dél-pesti Centrumkórház, Budapesti Péterfy Sándor Utcai Kórház-Rendelőintézet, Urológiai Osztály, Budapest
Summary
Testicular cancer is a rare malignancy predominantly affecting young men, with an excellent prognosis even in advanced stages due to modern therapeutic options. In clinical practice, patients and their relatives frequently ask why no organised, population-based screening programme exists for this disease. From a public health perspective, the fundamental criteria for the introduction of screening are not met in the case of testicular cancer. Current European guidelines do not support routine screening; however, they recommend providing information on regular testicular self-examination in high-risk groups. Longer patient delay is associated with diagnosis at a higher stage and with poorer outcomes in testicular cancer, with delays being more pronounced in populations of lower socioeconomic status. The aim of the present article is to clarify the role of testicular self-examination, which should be regarded not as a screening tool but as a means of promoting testicular awareness. Regular self-examination may contribute to earlier detection and improved survival outcomes.