A Web-based educational intervention for breast and testicular cancer self-examination

The efficacy of a brief Web-based intervention was evaluated to determine its utility in educating and motivating individuals to practice regular breast and testicular self-examinations. Utilizing an Internet quiz format with immediate feedback, 473 participants were provided educational messages about the importance of early detection for the treatment of breast and testicular cancer. Movement between Transtheoretical Stages of Change was used to evaluate the effectiveness of this education program. Prior to this program 17.3% of participants were in the pre-contemplation stage of performing regular self-examinations and this percentage was reduced to 2.5% post intervention. The percentage of those in the action stage increased from 6.2% to 22.2% and those in the preparation stage increased from 12.3% to 21% at post intervention. In evaluating the usefulness of a Web-based question and answer process to introduce concepts of self-examination for cancer awareness, 96.2% of respondents agreed that this format was helpful in facilitating learning.