Sometimes it can be difficult to talk about our health. For people living with genital cancers, there are sometimes additional burdens: a fear of discussing a “taboo” topic, concerns about being taken seriously, embarrassment or worry, or a general lack of awareness and understanding about these conditions. For example, penile cancer accounts for less than 1% of all cancers in males in the Western world, though it is more common (10%+) in areas of South America, Africa, and Asia. It is minimally discussed in the United States. This lack of dialogue in this space contributes not just to a continued culture of unawareness, but to a lack of research.

That’s what makes the InPACT study so impactful. According to an article published in Scienmag, international researchers are collaborating on this study to develop a stronger understanding of penile cancer and work towards stronger therapeutic options. So far, 100 patients with penile cancer have enrolled, though the trial hopes to enroll an additional 100. The 100th patient, however, was seen as a huge milestone. After all, this marked the most patients with this condition ever enrolled in a prospective clinical study. Findings from this study can be used to inform clinical decisions and guidelines in the future.

What is Penile Cancer?

Historically, penile cancer has been extremely rare in many communities, though rates have risen over the years. This rare cancer forms in or on the penis. While it can form anywhere on the penis, it most often begins on the foreskin (in people who are uncircumcised) or on the head of the penis (in those who are circumcised). Most cases of penile cancer are squamous cell carcinoma. In rarer cases, basal cell carcinoma, sarcoma, or melanoma may occur. This cancer can occur in younger individuals but is more commonly diagnosed in people aged 55+. Additional risk factors include HPV or HIV infection, poor hygeine, tobacco use, phimosis (an extremely tight foreskin), and lichen sclerosus.

Early detection and treatment are crucial for good outcomes. Signs or symptoms of penile cancer may include:

• A penile rash
• Foul-smelling discharge
• A painless lump or sore that may bleed
• Small, crusty bumps
• Flat, bluish-brown lesions
• Thickened skin
• Changes in skin color
• Fluid under the foreskin
• Penile swelling or irritation, especially at the head

While these symptoms can be a sign of another health condition, such as an infection, you should see your doctor to be sure. In early stages, penile cancer treatment may include Mohs surgery, cryotherapy, circumcision, or a topical cream. Later, chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, or a penectomy may be required.