Doctors are encouraging people to stay alert to the early warning signs of penile cancer. Although it’s an uncommon cancer, more advanced cases can require partial or total amputation.
New research led by oncologist Professor Amit Bahl at University Hospitals Bristol has drawn attention to how immunotherapy may help improve survival for people with penile cancer and other serious illnesses. Because outcomes are far better when treatment starts early, getting medical advice quickly—and recognising possible symptoms—can be key.
Some early signs of penile cancer can be mistaken for short-term irritation, or people may feel too embarrassed to see a doctor. That delay can be risky, which is why understanding what to look out for matters for early diagnosis and recovery.
According to Cleveland Clinic, penile cancer remains rare, accounting for less than 1% of cancers in people with a penis, with higher rates reported in parts of Africa, Asia and South America.
There are several forms of penile cancer. The most common is squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), which develops in the upper layers of skin and is responsible for about 95% of cases. Less common types include melanoma, basal cell carcinoma (BCC), adenocarcinoma, and the very rare urothelial carcinoma.
Penile cancer is responsible for more deaths than testicular cancer and can appear anywhere on the penis, though it often begins under the foreskin or on the glans (the head of the penis). It’s more frequently diagnosed in middle age and later, but knowing the potential symptoms—such as colour changes or a persistent rash—can still be important at any age.
Possible red flags include discolouration (often red or bluish-brown) and a rash or sore that doesn’t clear up after a month. Other concerning symptoms can include bleeding, unusual discharge, or a noticeable lump, either on the penis or in the groin where lymph nodes sit. In some cases, the foreskin may become tethered and difficult to pull back (via The Times).
These symptoms can also be caused by other, more common problems, including infections like thrush (candida), skin conditions such as lichen sclerosus, balanitis or psoriasis, or injury in cases where bleeding occurs. Even so, it’s sensible to speak with a doctor to exclude anything serious.
When caught early, penile cancer is often straightforward to treat. Small, early lesions may be removed or destroyed using lasers, and some cases can be treated with chemotherapy or immunotherapy creams. Later-stage disease can need stronger interventions, which may include circumcision, local excision with skin grafting, removal of the glans (glansectomy), or total removal of the penis (penectomy). After penectomy, surgeons create a new urinary opening between the anus and scrotum, meaning the patient typically urinates sitting down while continence is maintained because the muscles controlling urine flow are preserved.
Groups at higher risk include smokers, people infected with human papillomavirus (HPV), those with weakened immune systems (including due to conditions such as HIV), and those who have not been circumcised.