Penile cancer is a medical condition that refers to the abnormal growth of cancer cells in the penis. Typically, this disease begins in the skin cells of the penis, especially around the foreskin or the head of the penis. This type of cancer is rare but can become serious if not diagnosed and treated promptly.

Several types of cancer can develop in the penis, including:

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common type. This disease starts from squamous cells, which are part of the skin around the penis. Symptoms may include lumps, sores, or changes in the skin of the penis. Risk factors contributing to the development of squamous cell carcinoma include HPV infection and poor personal hygiene.

Melanoma

Melanoma originates from melanocytes, which are responsible for producing skin pigment. Signs of melanoma on the penis may include changes in color, size, or shape of existing moles or spots on the penis.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that is more common on other parts of the body but can sometimes occur on the penis. This cancer develops from basal cells in the epidermis of the skin. Symptoms may include lumps or sores on the penis that can appear slowly and be painless.

Adenocarcinoma

This cancer arises from the cells that form glands in the body. Symptoms and signs of penile adenocarcinoma can vary depending on the location and size of the tumor.

Sarcoma

This cancer originates from supportive tissues in the body, such as muscles, cartilage, or fat. Symptoms of penile sarcoma may include swelling, pain, or changes in the skin involving the penis.

Causes of Penile Cancer

HPV virus infection can cause body cells to become abnormal and potentially develop into cancer. Additionally, research indicates that smoking can damage DNA, which contains instructions for regulating growth, division, and cell death. Damage to this DNA can disrupt these instructions, causing cells to become abnormal and triggering cancer development.

Risk Factors for Penile Cancer

Several risk factors associated with penile cancer include:

1. Smoking
2. Being over 60 years old
3. Having sexually transmitted diseases, such as HPV
4. Being uncircumcised or not cleaning the foreskin
5. Having phimosis

Phimosis is a condition where the foreskin of the penis is difficult or impossible to retract. This can lead to the accumulation of substances like smegma under the foreskin and increase the risk of infections and inflammation, which can contribute to cancer development.

Ways to Prevent Penile Cancer

1. Get the HPV vaccine.
2. Consider the benefits of circumcision.
3. Quit smoking if you smoke.
4. Always wash or maintain hygiene of the penis regularly using unscented soap and warm water.
5. Use condoms during sexual intercourse.
6. Avoid multiple sexual partners.
7. Clean the skin under the foreskin properly if uncircumcised.

Author: Dr. Tri Wahyuni (Medical Services at Pramita Pontianak)