[How can early detection programs become a men's health topic? Survey of urology practices].
BACKGROUND
Various statistics demonstrate the importance of medical prevention in men.


METHODS
As one example, overall survival is increased with the early diagnosis of prostate cancer. In this article information from 212 consecutive patients with an appointment in a urology practice is presented and discussed. Of special interest are factors that motivate men to participate in early detection programs for prostate cancer. The data give an insight into reasoning and motivation for men to participate in such programs and criteria to select a specific urology practice.


RESULTS
The results, which also include diagnostic methods that are not covered by the general German health insurance and have to be paid by the patient himself, can help the urologist promote diagnostic tools and identify areas of deficit. A key role is played by the family physician. Our results show that he is the primary source for health-related questions. He has the best opportunity to draw the attention of the mature and critical patient to measures of precaution and emphasize their importance. This is especially true for the large group of men who so far have not participated in early detection programs since they apparently are not aware of their own personal health risk.
PandaMED, Dünkeloh-Klinik Remscheid, Kooperationspraxis der Klinik für Urologie und Kinderurologie, Helios-Klinikum, Universität Witten/Herdecke, Wuppertal, Alleestraße 105-107, 42857 Remscheid, Deutschland. irtima@t-online.de
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Mathers
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Reichel
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Nadig
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Roth
D001294:Attitude to Health; D042241:Early Diagnosis; D005858:Germany / Q000453:epidemiology; D019538:Health Care Surveys; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008403:Mass Screening / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D054526:Men's Health / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D008875:Middle Aged; D011331:Private Practice / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011471:Prostatic Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012308:Risk Management; D014572:Urology / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*