Effective strategies for testicular torsion education in adolescents: A qualitative study in educational environments

Abstract

Objective: In the context of testicular torsion, research demonstrates a delay from the onset of testicular pain to attending hospital in adolescents, leading to high rates of testicular loss. This is due to a lack of knowledge about this condition. In this study, we aimed to investigate the methods adolescents and their parents felt would be effective in testicular torsion education. Design: Qualitative semi-structured interviews and focus group workshops were used to generate ideas and opinions regarding the ‘ideal’ education package for testicular torsion. Setting: One-to-one interviews with young men and a chosen chaperone recruited through purposive sampling from after-school clubs. Focus groups recruited from an active hospital youth forum. Method: Qualitative data analysis was undertaken to explore collective and normative views and to validate findings using a combination of thematic framework, and descriptive and content analysis. Results: In all, 16 young men aged 11–19 years with an attending chaperone were interviewed. Forty-four young people of both sexes participated in focus groups. Participants in all groups supported school-based teaching about testicular torsion, with focus group members mentioning Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHE) as the preferred setting. Members of all groups also advocated the use of video, but tone was a matter of debate. Reservations were expressed regarding the use of social and online media as primary means of dissemination but saw these as useful adjuncts to formal school lessons. Focus group members were supportive of teaching in a mixed sex environment and for repeat lessons at 11 and 13 years of age. Conclusion: Study findings support the development and use of PSHE teaching, using video methodology, to promote knowledge about testicular torsion in boys and young men. An evidence-based intervention to improve outcomes in testicular torsion for this cohort can now be developed.

Patient Query in Adolescent Testicular Torsion Cases: "Was it Necessary to Mention My Scrotal Pain?"

“…It is evident that the general awareness of TT is deficient, with most individuals unaware that TT can occur, potentially leading to testicular loss. This deficiency in awareness appears to be true for all levels of society and educational ability, as in our patients' families [5,8,[15][16][17][18]. In comparison to families whose children underwent surgery for other reasons, our families demonstrated erratic behavior when confronted with the possibility of testicular loss due to delay.…”

Teste Talk: A trial social media campaign to improve awareness of testicular torsion

“…A focus group of males aged 11 to 18 found that second to teaching in their school classrooms, social media was reported to be the most effective method of disseminating information about testicular torsion. 9 While many studies discuss the importance of education in reducing rates of orchiectomy, we were unable to find literature that discusses the use of social media as a tool to disseminate information about testicular torsion. 10 Patients and families are increasingly seeking healthcare information online, and are turning to platforms such as Instagram and Facebook more than ever before, with as many as 92.4% of parents stating that it is important for physicians to have an online social media presence.…”

Digital advances in health education with fun health games for children

“…In the study of MacDonald et al (2022), the opinions of adolescents and their parents about a possible health education for testicular disorders were taken. The qualitative ndings obtained show that participants support school-based health education.…”