“They don’t like going to doctors and even less to show their attributes. Diseases, STIs and cancers are often detected too late and become difficult to treat. So how do you encourage men to show their private parts more often to specialists?” This is the question asked in the campaign, “Dickpics-diagnostic”, launched by the CerHom association, the first male health association in France.
Organize an anonymous and free consultation after receiving a dickpic
To prevent and educate patients about testicular cancer, she had an idea. “50% of women received a dickpic (a photo of their genitals). We created fake profiles on dating apps. And guess what? It worked. Over 100 photos were received in a month”, explains the association in a video.
After receiving a non-consented intimate snapshot by message, fake profiles send this type of response: “Hello! Looking closely at your photo, it looks like one of your testicles is swollen. This could be a symptom of an infection or cancer. Consider seeing a doctor. sending a photo of your private parts without consent is assault” punishable by law. On the site dickpic-diagnostic.comthe association points out that men should send their intimate photos “to the right person”, namely to a team of medical specialists, who can answer their questions anonymously and for free on Whatsapp.
Testicular cancer: think about self-examination every month
As a reminder, testicular cancer most often develops from the cells that produce sperm. According the Cancer Research Foundationit is the most common cancer in young people aged 15 to 35. “Testicular cancer is most often diagnosed following the appearance of a mass that you may have discovered on palpation or that has been detected by your doctor”, precise the national cancer institute.
As part of its campaign, the CerHom association reminds us that we must think about self-examination every month. This should be done in a hot shower. “The heat will make it easier. Roll your testicle between your thumb and other fingers. Check for any lump, swelling, or pain,” she explains before adding that in case of doubt, it is advisable to consult a doctor.