Penile Cancer

Overview

Penile cancer is a rare cancer that develops on the skin or tissue of the penis. It's more common in men with chronic irritation, poor hygiene, phimosis, or certain HPV infections, and early evaluation of any persistent sore makes a significant difference to outcomes.

Symptoms

●A growth, sore or ulcer that doesn't heal

●Changes in skin color or thickening

●Foul-smelling discharge

●Bleeding from the area

●A lump in the groin in more advanced disease

Causes

Chronic irritation and poor hygiene, HPV infection, smoking, and longstanding phimosis all contribute to the development of penile cancer.

Risk Factors

Phimosis — An uncircumcised, tight foreskin is a significant risk factor.

HPV infection — Linked to a proportion of penile cancer cases.

Smoking — An established contributing risk factor.

Age over 60 — Most cases occur in older men.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis involves a physical exam and biopsy to confirm the diagnosis, followed by imaging for staging if cancer is confirmed.

Complications If Untreated

Delayed diagnosis increases the risk of spread to groin lymph nodes and may require more extensive surgery.

Prevention Tips

Good hygiene, prompt treatment of phimosis, HPV vaccination, and not smoking all meaningfully reduce risk.

Lifestyle Advice

Any persistent sore, growth, or skin change on the penis should be evaluated promptly rather than assumed to be minor.