Enhancing Testicular Cancer Prevention Among University Students: A Health Belief Model and Social Support Intervention

Abstract

Background and objective: Testicular cancer poses a significant health concern for young adults, particularly university students, who often lack tailored interventions. Drawing on the Health Belief Model and a social support strategy, this study implemented an innovative educational program to empower male university students with knowledge and promote proactive engagement in testicular cancer self-examination practices. Material and method: A quasi-experimental research design was utilized in this study. The study participants consisted of 350 male individuals aged 18-25, corresponding to the final academic year (fourth year). The educational intervention for the post-test phase group consisted of seven 50 to 60-minute training and education sessions designed to enhance knowledge and promote preventive behaviors related to testicular cancer. Various statistical tests, such as Chi-square tests, independent t-tests, Mann-Whitney tests, and Repeated Measurement ANOVA, were systematically employed to unravel meaningful insights and determine the statistical significance of observed trends. Results: The findings showed significant improvements post-intervention in knowledge, perceived susceptibility, severity, benefits, self-efficacy, cues to action, social support, and testicular self-examination performance. Conclusion: The study underscores the effectiveness of the intervention in promoting preventive behaviours against testicular cancer among university students, laying the groundwork for future educational initiatives.