Enhancing men's awareness of testicular diseases: A feasibility trial and process evaluation

BACKGROUND: Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in men aged 18 to 44 years. Symptoms of testicular cancer can mimic those of benign diseases like epididymitis and torsion. Men's awareness of testicular diseases is often lacking and their intention to seek help for testicular symptoms is sub-optimal. Athletes involved in field games like hurling are at risk for testicular trauma and diseases. The aim of the enhancing men's awareness of testicular diseases (E-MAT) study was to explore the feasibility of conducting a definitive trial to test the effect of E-MATVR (intervention; virtual reality [VR] game) compared to information delivered electronically E-MATE (control; information in PDF format) on testicular knowledge and self-examination among athletes. METHODS: In total, 74 participants were recruited from nine Gaelic Athletics Association (GAA) sports clubs in County Cork in Ireland using social media posts and posters. Participants were individually randomised to either E-MATVR or E-MATE. Outcomes were measured at T0 (baseline), T1 (immediately post-test) and T2 (3 months post-test). RESULTS: Testicular awareness increased significantly between T0 and T1 (p = 0.01) in both groups. Testicular awareness further increased at T2 for E-MATE participants. All participants in E-MATVR (n = 37, 100%) agreed that the VR headset was easy to use and that they were engaged to learn, while almost all E-MATE participants (n = 33, 89%) agreed with these statements. Most participants in both arms agreed that the time it took to complete the intervention was reasonable (p = 0.036). All participants were either extremely satisfied or somewhat satisfied with their overall experience of participating in the study. CONCLUSIONS: VR may be effective in enhancing men's awareness of and help-seeking intentions for testicular diseases. A future definite trial is warranted to test the effect of E-MATVR. KEY MESSAGES: • VR may be effective in promoting the wellbeing of hard-to-reach populations, particularly among young men, to help raise awareness and promote testicular self-examination and early help-seeking. • VR may help detect testicular diseases early, reduce treatment costs, and improve overall health outcomes.