Hard is Not Always Good

Urologists and the Golf Community Send an Important Message to Men

"Only 20% of our health depends on the healthcare system. A staggering 50% depends on how we take care of ourselves and the lifestyle we choose. We still see cases of testicular cancer being diagnosed at very late stages—sometimes when we can no longer help. Globally, the five-year survival rate for testicular cancer is 98-99%, whereas in Lithuania, it is only 88%.

"Testicular cancer is a disease that primarily affects young men. In Lithuania, outdated ‘macho’ stereotypes persist—real men don’t get sick, don’t cry, don’t feel weak. With this campaign, we want to encourage young men to care for their health, understand the basics of testicular anatomy and physiology, and, most importantly, develop the habit of regular and correct testicular self-examination."— Dr. Marius Kinčius, President of the Lithuanian Urological Association

Golf and Men's Health—An Unexpected but Meaningful Connection

This year, the campaign is partnered with the Lithuanian Golf Federation.

"Many believe that golf is only for older people, but in reality, it is one of the few sports that can be played from a very young age well into old age. This aligns perfectly with our campaign's goals—young people often think cancer is only a concern for the elderly, leading to a lack of awareness. Also, most beginner and amateur golfers play with soft golf balls—a metaphor for healthy testicles, which should be soft and free of lumps." — Dr. Marius Kinčius

The golfing community has a strong tradition of supporting social initiatives, often organizing charity tournaments and financial contributions.

"About 80% of golfers are men, making this campaign highly relevant to our community. Golf provides many health benefits—players walk up to 10 km per round in fresh air, engaging all muscle groups. Research shows that golfers live 5-10 years longer than non-golfers. The strategic nature of the game and outdoor movement also positively impact mental health." — Irma Markevičienė, Board Member of the Lithuanian Golf Federation.

The healthcare system is responsible for only 20 percent of our health

In Lithuania, the number of testicular cancer cases fluctuates between 35 and 50 annually. This disease is more common in highly developed Western European and Scandinavian countries. Over a lifetime, approximately 1 in 250 to 300 men are at risk of developing testicular cancer. In comparison, prostate cancer affects one in five to eight men. In 2023, around 7,200 cases of testicular cancer and approximately 9,100 deaths from the disease were recorded worldwide. Since 1978, 1,533 cases of testicular tumors have been diagnosed in Lithuanian men, and 502 men have died from malignant testicular tumors.

Men most often visit urologists due to symptoms such as pain, noticeable or palpable changes in the genital area, urination disorders, or changes in the color of urine or semen. However, many also seek medical attention due to fear, lack of knowledge, or misinterpretation of bodily signals. A survey conducted in Western Europe a few years ago revealed that more than fifty percent of men visit urologists out of fear.

According to Dr. Marius Kinčius, two factors are crucial: early diagnosis and a strong doctor-patient relationship.

"Of course, the availability of healthcare services is also an important factor. Fortunately, in Lithuania, the 'green corridor' principle is in place for suspected or diagnosed oncological diseases, ensuring that these patients have rapid access to oncology cluster treatment centers," says Dr. Kinčius.

The urologist emphasizes that when illness occurs, the healthcare system plays a significant role—costs and resources are substantial. However, as long as we are healthy, the healthcare system's intervention is unnecessary; instead, individual actions determine how many years of good health a person will have and the quality of their life. Regular self-examinations cost nothing—one to two minutes per month can save young lives.

For diseases detected at an early stage, treatment is often shorter, less intensive, and less costly for the state. Additionally, it typically disrupts a patient's normal life for a significantly shorter period. There are even cases where professional athletes return to their sport as soon as one month after completing treatment.