Testicular cancer: the importance of effective health education

Testicular cancer is the commonest malignancy in the UK among men aged 20-34 years. Although rare, it is one of the most curable cancers. There is a correlation between the incidence of testicular cancer and age, histology, social class and geographical region. As survival is dependent on early detection, men should be encouraged to practise testicular self-examination at least every 6 months. Nurses are in an ideal position to teach and encourage such practice. However, for optimal effect, health education programmes need to take into account complexities, such as cultural diversity, if patients are to heed vital and in some cases life-sustaining advice.