Men across the UK are being urged to look out for the signs and symptoms of penile cancer after new research shows the incidence of this little-known disease has increased by a worrying 21%.
Health on Female First
The research, supported by the male cancer charity Orchid and led by UK penile cancer experts, offers a unique insight into a rare and much misunderstood disease.
"Penile cancer is rare compared to other male cancers and so statistics on long-term diagnosis and survival rates are hard to find. This study presents the most robust and up to date data available on the incidence, mortality and survival trends in England," says study author Manit Arya.
The study looks at the incidence and mortality of penile cancer in England between 1979 and 2009. A total of 9,690 cases of penile cancer were diagnosed, with an overall age-standardised increase of 21% detected over this 31 year period.
An estimated 500 men are diagnosed with penile cancer each year in the UK. An early diagnosis can be missed by healthcare professionals or can be mistaken for a sexually transmitted disease or a benign skin condition. This can result in delays in getting a correct diagnosis and starting life-saving treatment.
Early diagnosis can mean better treatment options and outcomes, as Asif Muneer explains: ‘Penile preserving surgery is now possible and men no longer have to undergo total or partial amputation of the penis. We also have better diagnostic techniques for the lymph nodes which has reduced the morbidity associated with groin surgery."
Orchid Chief Executive, Rebecca Porta, says: "The research shows that the incidence of this rare cancer, which currently receives little recognition, is on the increase. We need men to be aware of the warning signs and symptoms of the disease and for GPs to consider the possibility of penile cancer when they are referring men for further investigation.
From talking to men who have been diagnosed with penile cancer we know just how devastating and life changing the impact of this disease can be. Unlike other more common cancers, penile cancer is rare and many men feel embarrassed and unable to talk openly about it. This can lead to feelings of isolation at a time when support is vital.
It is very important that men with worrying symptoms seek medical advice and do so as soon as possible."
Tagged in Cancer Mens Health