Penile cancer

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Penile cancer is a rare form of cancer that typically affects the skin of the penis, most commonly occurring in men over the age of 50. There are various types of penile cancer, depending on the type of cells from which the cancer originates.

Symptoms of penile cancer

It's important to be vigilant for any abnormalities or signs of penile cancer, such as:

• A growth or sore on the penis that doesn't heal within 4 weeks
• Persistent bleeding from the penis or under the foreskin
• Foul-smelling discharge
• Thickening of the skin of the penis or foreskin, making it difficult to retract the foreskin (phimosis)
• Changes in the colour of the skin of the penis or foreskin
• Non-resolving rash on the penis

If you notice any of these symptoms or have concerns, it's crucial to see your doctor promptly. While these symptoms are unlikely to be caused by penile cancer, they should be evaluated.

Preventing penile cancer

While it's not always possible to prevent penile cancer entirely, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

• Quit smoking, as smoking increases the risk of penile cancer.
• Maintain good penis hygiene to prevent bacterial and viral infections that can heighten the risk. This is particularly important if you are uncircumcised.

Simple hygiene practices include:

• Using condoms to lower the risk of contracting human papilloma virus (HPV).
• Regularly washing the penis with warm water, ensuring to clean under the foreskin.

There's limited evidence suggesting that undergoing circumcision as an adult reduces the likelihood of developing penile cancer. Therefore, focus on preventive measures such as hygiene and avoiding risk factors like smoking for optimal penile health.