Penile cancer is a rare type of cancer that affects the tissues of the penis. Although the incidence of penis cancer is low, it is still a serious concern for men.
The exact causes of penis cancer are not clear, but there are certain risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing this disease.
Age
One of the most significant risk factors for penis cancer is age. Men over the age of 60 are at higher risk than younger men.
Human papillomavirus (HPV)
HPV is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause cancer. Certain strains of HPV are linked to penis cancer. Men who have multiple sexual partners or who have unprotected sex are more likely to contract HPV and develop penis cancer.
Smoking
Smoking cigarettes and other tobacco products can increase the risk of developing penis cancer. Tobacco contains harmful chemicals that can damage the DNA in the cells of the penis, leading to cancer.
Phimosis
Phimosis is a condition where the foreskin cannot be retracted from the head of the penis. This can lead to inflammation and irritation of the tissues, which can increase the risk of cancer.
Balanitis
Balanitis is an inflammation of the head of the penis. This condition can be caused by poor hygiene, sexually transmitted infections, or irritants. Chronic balanitis can increase the risk of penis cancer.
Exposure to chemicals
Exposure to certain chemicals, such as those used in the manufacturing of rubber, can increase the risk of developing penis cancer.
Family history
Men with a family history of penis cancer may be more likely to develop the disease themselves. This may be due to inherited gene mutations that increase the risk of cancer.
Immunosuppression
Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV or who have had organ transplants, are at higher risk of developing cancer, including penis cancer.
Personal hygiene
Poor personal hygiene, including not bathing regularly or washing the genitals properly, can increase the risk of developing infections that can lead to penis cancer.
Overweight and obesity
Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of several types of cancer, including penis cancer. This may be because excess body fat can cause inflammation and oxidative stress, which can damage cells and increase the risk of cancer.