From declared interest to non-participation: a feasibility study of a multi-stage testicular cancer prevention intervention among young men.

BACKGROUND

Testicular cancer primarily affects young men, yet engagement in preventive behaviors, including testicular self-examination (TSE), remains limited. From a public health perspective, it is important not only to assess knowledge and attitudes, but also to examine whether preventive interventions can be implemented successfully under real-world conditions. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and implementation of a multi-stage testicular cancer prevention project conducted in an academic setting.

METHODS

The study was designed as a diagnostic-educational project consisting of three stages: a baseline survey, an educational component (online materials and workshops on TSE), and a follow-up survey. Approximately 600 men affiliated with the academic community were invited to participate. Process indicators included recruitment reach, participation in the educational component, and retention across study stages.

RESULTS

The baseline survey was completed by 76 participants (12.6%). No participants attended the educational workshops, and 8 individuals completed the follow-up survey (10.5% of the baseline sample). Findings from the diagnostic stage indicated low engagement in preventive behaviors and limited knowledge of correct TSE technique. Although respondents expressed interest in health-related topics, this interest did not translate into sustained participation in subsequent stages of the project.

CONCLUSIONS

Limited engagement in the educational component should be interpreted not only as a study limitation, but also as an observation suggesting the presence of barriers to participation in preventive interventions delivered under real-world conditions.The results suggest a need for interventions that are better aligned with the preferences of young men, particularly with respect to anonymity, low-threshold access, and psychologically less demanding formats.