Testicular self-examination: the person with learning disabilities

Abstract

People with learning disabilities are at just as much risk as the general population are of contracting cancer. Mainstream men’s healthcare needs are often neglected and this is also true for men who have learning disabilities. Testicular self-examination (TSE) is seen as an important activity that men should be taught to detect any early changes that may be signs of physiological significance. While testicular cancer is rare, its incidence is rising. In the majority of cases of testicular cancer, over 90% are curable (Cancer Research UK, 2002). TSE, for the purposes of this article, is seen as an activity that can be carried out independently (by the man himself) or with the assistance of another person (for example, carer or partner). This article discusses the importance of TSE and, in particular, with men who have a learning disability.

Cancer prevention and health promotion for people with intellectual disabilities: an exploratory study of staff knowledge

“…This study was designed as a descriptive and exploratory study and data were collected from a small sample in a single geographical location; thus, care should be taken with regard to the generalisability of its findings. Nevertheless, there is a sense of ‘fit’ between this study's findings and those of previous studies (MENCAP 2004; Peate & Maloret 2007; Taggart et al . 2010).…”

“…This study was designed as a descriptive and exploratory study and data were collected from a small sample in a single geographical location; thus, care should be taken with regard to the generalisability of its findings. Nevertheless, there is a sense of 'fit' between this study's findings and those of previous studies (MENCAP 2004;Peate & Maloret 2007;. Significant gaps were found in residential care staff's knowledge of the signs and symptoms of cancer, as well as the risk factors for certain cancers such as stomach, breast, cervical and prostrate.…”

The experiences of adults with learning disabilities attending a sexuality and relationship group:“I want to get married and have kids”

“…Although attitudes are changing, they still experience difficulties in expressing their sexuality4–6 and in developing meaningful relationships 1. They also tend to have differing and unrecognised sexual health needs to those of the general population 7 8. They require more support, including sexual health promotion, for their needs to be met 9…”

Do Learning Disabilities Affect Testicular Cancer Survival: A National Cohort Study Between 2001 and 2015

“…It is often postulated that these individuals may be at higher risk of dying from cancer for several reasons. They are less likely to access screening programs [4,5], less likely to know about self-examination [6], less likely to be aware of sinister symptoms that require medical attention, and by extension, more likely to present later with their disease [7]. However, there is a distinct paucity of data and research on cancer in this vulnerable subgroup to confirm suspicions about their risk and to provide a basis for considering implementation of change.…”

“…One disease that is particularly dependent on routine self-examination and awareness of the need to seek medical advice is testicular cancer (TC) [6]. Several high-profile campaigns have sought to educate young men about the importance of self-examination and how to perform it [8].…”