Symptoms of penile cancer as the number of cases increases

Penile cancer rates are rising worldwide, with 760 people now diagnosed with the disease each year in the UK. This number is up from 699 cases a year between 2016 and 2018, according to Cancer Research UK.

Since the early 1990s, penile cancer incidence rates have risen by more than a quarter (28%) in men in the UK. Rates are projected to rise another 9% by 2038, when more than 1,100 diagnoses will be made each year.

Currently, 150 men die each year from penile cancer in the UK

According to the BBC, penile cancer symptoms often start with a sore on the penis and a strong-smelling discharge. Left untreated, partial or total amputation may be necessary.

Sufferer João told the BBC: “For my family, it was a very unpleasant surprise, especially because part of my penis had to be amputated. I feel like I’ve been beheaded. It’s a type of cancer you can’t talk about. about people because it might turn into a joke.”

He added: “It’s something you never imagined would happen to you, and when it does, you just can’t tell people. I was terrified of the operation, but there was no other alternative. The feeling in the first few weeks after the operation was one of sadness, I can’t deny that not having part of your penis is horrible.”

Doctors recommend the HPV vaccine to prevent the spread of the disease. Smoking also increases the risk of developing penile cancer. Failure to clean properly is also a risk factor.

Common symptoms of penile cancer include:

1. Changes in the skin of the penis :

   • A growth or sore on the penis, especially on the glans (head) or foreskin.
   • Thickening or a lump on the penis.
   • Reddish, velvety rash under the foreskin.
   • Small bumps, crusts.
   • Flat, bluish-brown growths.

2. Discharge and smell :

   • Foul-smelling discharge under the foreskin.

3. Pain and discomfort :

   • Pain in the penis, which can become severe over time.
   • Bleeding from the penis or under the foreskin.

4. Swelling :

   • Swelling at the tip of the penis.
   • Swollen lymph nodes in the groin area, indicating possible spread to nearby tissues.

5. Irritation and itching :

   • Persistent itching under the foreskin or on the glans.