Introduction
It is rather strange not to recommend a testicular self-examination (TSE) to patients in their teens under 35 years of age and not to teach this technique. When asked about the reasons for this decision, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) is known to discourage this practice, citing a lack of evidence that TSE improves outcomes (Rovito et al., 2022). This challenges thinking and asks the question, “What is the evidence behind the recommendation?”
This question adopts the format of a PICOT question: “Does TSE affect early detection of testicular cancer within one year in men aged 15 to 35 compared to no screening?” This is a background question as it examines the status quo and asks if there is evidence to support the USPSTF recommendation. Therefore, research is necessary to address this question. This essay will help to understand whether TSE affects the early detection of testicular cancer within one year in men aged 15 to 35 years.
Need for Further Research on TSE Effectiveness
The issue of TSE’s effectiveness in detecting testicular cancer early (specifically within twelve months) requires more detailed research to answer. The research will help analyze the real results of those who have undergone TSEs and those who have not. To obtain the most accurate results, two studies should be carried out in parallel.
One study should verify the actual results of the survey itself, and the other one—those conducted by the medical staff (Akcali & Tastan, 2023). These studies should be conducted using a representative sample of men aged 15 to 35 years. However, to analyze the real results of the study and make a final decision on whether to recommend TSE or not, several factors must be taken into account, including a high level of awareness, availability of medical equipment, the patient’s ability to perform the procedure, etc (Akcali & Tastan, 2023). These factors should be appropriately assessed before deciding the best way to prevent testicular cancer in patients.
Benefits of Early Detection Through Testicular Self-Examination
Testicular self-examination is an effective approach to early detection for testicular cancer in American men aged 15 to 35. Compared to people who do not have self-exams, men who do testicular self-exams can detect testicular cancer earlier and access the care they need. Studies show that people who undergo TSE are more likely to detect malignant neoplasms at an early stage. The process of detecting cancer at an early stage provides the best prospects for survival and effective treatment (Rovito et al., 2022). Additionally, identifying the disease at an early stage helps prevent undesirable consequences, such as the spread of the disease and irreversible effects.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a definitive recommendation regarding testicular self-examination requires further research. This future research must account for various influencing factors to determine whether TSE actually leads to one-year early diagnosis of testicular cancer for men in the 15-to-35 age bracket. Understanding this link is crucial for ensuring men receive timely medical care and avoid negative outcomes. Obtaining reliable results will require a thorough review of both past and future studies.
References
Akcali, K., & Tastan, S. (2023). The Effects of Flipped Classroom Model on Knowledge, Behaviour and Health Beliefs on Testicular Cancer and Self-Examination: A Randomized Controlled Trial Study. Health Education Research, 38(3), 230-240.
Rovito, M. J., Allen, K., Nangia, A., Craycraft, M., Cary, C., Lutz, M.,… & Alcantara, A. (2022). A Call to Action to Review the USPSTF’s Recommendation for Testicular Self-Examination. American Journal of Men’s Health, 16(5), 15579883221130186.