Evaluation of knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of family physicians about testicular cancer and testicular self-examination: An observational study

Testicular cancer (TC) is a common malignancy among young men, where early detection greatly improves outcomes. Family physicians are essential in raising awareness and guiding self-care practices such as testicular self-examination (TSE). This cross-sectional study evaluated the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of 307 family physicians including specialists, residents, contracted assistant physicians, and general practitioners regarding TC and TSE. Participants included 10.4% family medicine specialists, 67.4% residents, 13.7% contracted assistant physicians, and 8.5% general practitioners, with a mean professional experience of 5.93 ± 5.89 years. While 65.8% felt their knowledge about TC was partially sufficient, 57.7% did not know how to perform TSE and 49.7% of male participants had never performed it. Despite 95.8% believing TSE is beneficial, 71.0% did not recommend it to male patients. Additionally, 53.4% considered TSE important, and 79.2% viewed it as equally important as breast self-examination. Knowledge of risk factors was significantly higher among family medicine specialists. The study highlights significant gaps in physician knowledge and practice regarding TC and TSE. Although not currently a standard screening tool, TSE can aid early detection. Enhancing awareness and education among physicians is crucial to promote patient guidance and improve outcomes.