Spotlight on penile cancer
What is penile cancer?
Penile cancer symptoms
The penis is part of the male reproductive and urinary systems. Penile cancer is a disease where (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the penis. Most penile cancers are squamous cell carcinomas (cancer that begins in flat cells lining the penis).
Colour changes, bumps or thickening of the skin can be signs of penis cancer. Other symptoms can include discharge or bleeding.
The stats* Penile cancer is rare. In 2020 there will be an estimated 136 cases of penile cancer diagnosed and an estimated 24 deaths from this disease. In 2012–2016, on average, 73.8% of males diagnosed with penile cancer survived 5 years after diagnosis. And it is estimated that in 2020 males will have a 1 in 1,391 (or 0.0719%) risk of being diagnosed with penile cancer by the age of 80.
136 men
It is estimated will be affected by penile cancer in Australia in 2020.
These and other symptoms may be caused by penile cancer. Other conditions may cause the same symptoms. Check with your doctor if you have any of the following problems: • Redness, irritation, or a sore on the penis • A lump on the penis
Risk factors for penile cancer Infection with human papilloma virus is a risk factor for cancer of the penis. Some other conditions that affect the appearance of the skin of the penis can lead to cancer, so it’s important to see your doctor if you notice white, red or scaly patches. Other risk factors for penile cancer include: • Being age 60 or older • H aving phimosis (a condition in which the foreskin of the penis cannot be pulled back over the glans) • Having poor personal hygiene • Having many sexual partners • Using tobacco products
52 A LITTLE BELOW THE BELT
