Embarrassed men avoid cancer check-ups
Men are delaying going to the doctor when they suspect they may have testicular cancer because of embarrassment, new research has found.
A survey conducted by University of Oxford doctors found that many of 45 male patients whose behaviour was followed from their initial suspicions to diagnosis had put off making an appointment for weeks or even months.
They cited embarrassment, the desire not to be seen as weak or a hypochondriac, and the fear of losing their masculinity as the reasons for which they had not been for a check-up earlier.
The report concluded that awareness about the successful treatment of testicular cancer should be raised, and that men should be encouraged to seek medical help.
“It is important that [men] understand that a diagnosis of testicular cancer is not a death sentence and that the cure rate is excellent,” report co-author Dr Ann McPherson told BBC Online.
“Men also need easy access to doctors, at surgeries where they feel welcome, and to clinics where they can seek advice without embarrassment.”
