Enhancing men's awareness of testicular disorders using a virtual reality intervention: the E-MAT study

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Date
2018
Authors
Saab, Mohamad M.
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University College Cork
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Abstract
Introduction: Testicular cancer is the most common solid tumour among men aged less than 50 years. The incidence of this malignancy is on the rise globally. Benign testicular disorders such as testicular torsion and epididymitis can be life-threatening if left untreated. Men’s awareness of testicular disorders is lacking and their help-seeking intentions for testicular symptoms are low. Aim: To design and pilot-test an intervention (E-MAT) aimed at enhancing men’s testicular awareness and promoting early help-seeking for testicular symptoms. Methods: The Medical Research Council framework helped develop and pilot-test the E-MAT intervention. The evidence-base was identified by conducting one integrative and two systematic reviews of the literature on men’s awareness of testicular disorders. A qualitative study was conducted to explore men’s (n=29) awareness of testicular disorders; help-seeking intentions for testicular symptoms; and preferred strategies for learning about testicular disorders. The theoretical literature was reviewed and the Pre-Conscious Awareness to Action framework was developed to underpin E-MAT. The feasibility and usability of the intervention were tested with 15 men and its effectiveness was pilot-tested with 49 men. Results: Men lacked awareness of testicular disorders and intended to delay help-seeking for testicular symptoms. Participants recommended novel, humorous, and interactive strategies to raise testicular awareness. E-MAT was developed as a virtual reality experience with three levels aimed at familiarising men with the normal testes and testicular symptoms and diseases and was underpinned by the Pre-Conscious Awareness to Action framework. The E-MAT intervention was found to be feasible, user-friendly, and effective in enhancing men’s knowledge, testicular awareness, help-seeking intentions, and intentions and behaviours pertaining to feeling their testes. Conclusion: Full-scale testing of E-MAT is recommended by conducting a randomised controlled trial. E-MAT can be made publicly available using various platforms and virtual reality can be used to promote men’s awareness of different health topics.
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Testicular cancer , Testicular diseases , Awareness , Help-seeking , Virtual reality , Men's health
Citation
Saab, M. M.2018. Enhancing men's awareness of testicular disorders using a virtual reality intervention: the E-MAT study. PhD Thesis, University College Cork.