Penile cancer

Overview

Penile cancer affects the penis. It's very rare and mostly affects men aged over 50 years old.

Symptoms

Growth/sore on penis (doesn't heal); thickening/colour change; discharge/bleeding (under foreskin); lump.

Causes

HPV infection; Smoking; Phimosis (tight foreskin); Age >50. Rare.

Treatment

Surgery (remove tumour/penis); Radiotherapy; Chemotherapy. Creams (early stage).

Prevention

HPV vaccination; Stop smoking; Condoms; Good hygiene (cleaning under foreskin).

When to see a doctor

See GP if: sore/growth on penis >4 weeks; bleeding/discharge.