Testicular cancer knowledge amongst Lebanese university students and the effect of a social media awareness campaign

Abstract

Background Testicular cancer (TC) is the most common malignancy in men between 15–40 years. Testicular self-examination (TSE) leads to early diagnosis. We aimed, in this study, to evaluate the knowledge among young Lebanese male university students concerning TC and their practice of TSE. We also evaluated the use of social media (SM) for an awareness campaign. Methods Using an online survey, we evaluated male students' knowledge at our university and the factors associated with increased knowledge and practice of TSE. Then we conducted an entirely virtual awareness campaign using social media and an awareness video and evaluated its effect. Results Only 14% (N=115) had previously received awareness about TC, and 31% (N=254) previously had a testicular examination by a healthcare professional (HCP). Risk factors were identified correctly by 13% (N=160). Factors that were associated with the increased practice of TSE were medical studies (OR = 8.55, CI [3.93-19.50]), previous awareness about TC (OR=3.35, CI [1.90-5.92]), and high TC knowledge score (OR=1.38, CI [1.07-1.77]). Higher knowledge scores were associated with studying for seven years (OR=1.93, CI [1.23-3.05]) or more (OR=1.55, CI [1.09-2.19]). After the awareness campaign, 70% of the student practiced TSE, 15% talked with their HCP about TC, and 43% transmitted knowledge to others. About 4.6% of students discovered that they have risk factors for TC. The median amount of knowledge learned by the students was 8 over 10 (IQR 7-9). Most students (90%) had a good experience using social media for awareness. Conclusions Young university students in Lebanon have poor knowledge about TC and its risk factors. TSE is poorly practiced in non-medical students, especially in the most concerned men with risk factors. Education about TC increases the practice of TSE. The use of social media is an effective method for awareness campaigns and can improve health-related practices.