Age, HIV/AIDS, Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, Phimosis, Psoriasis treatment, Smegma, Tobacco use
Age — About 80 percent of US men with penile cancer are at least 55 when diagnosed, with 68 being the average age of diagnosis. However, 60 is the average age of diagnosis for African American and Hispanic men
HIV/AIDS — Men with HIV/AIDS have a higher risk of penile cancer. This higher risk may be linked to a weakened immune system resulting from AIDS, but additional factors might also play a role. For example, men with HIV are more likely to smoke and be infected with HPV.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection — The most important risk factor for penile cancer is infection with this virus, which is found in about half of all penile cancers. Skin-to-skin contact, including sexual activity, spreads HPV. The virus can also spread from one body part to another in the same person (for example, from the penis to the anus). HPV infection is common and the body usually clears the infection on its own. However, the infection can become chronic and cause penile cancer. Men who are not circumcised may be more likely to get and stay infected with HPV.
Phimosis — Penile cancer is more common in men with phimosis, which occurs when the foreskin becomes tight and is difficult to retract. Men with phimosis are less likely to be able to thoroughly clean the penis, leading to the buildup of smegma and to inflammation.
Psoriasis treatment — Men who have received the drug psoralen combined with ultraviolet light have a higher risk of developing penile cancer. To help lower their risk, men receiving this therapy (called PUVA) now have their genitals covered during treatment.
Smegma — This thick substance caused by dead skin cells, bacteria, and oily skin secretions can build up under the foreskin. It can irritate and inflame the penis, increasing cancer risk, and might also make it harder to see very early cancers. Uncircumcised men should pull back, or retract, the foreskin and thoroughly wash the penis on a regular basis.
Tobacco use — Men who smoke and/or use other forms of tobacco are more likely to develop penile cancer. Tobacco users who have HPV infections have an even higher risk.
