The Epidemiology of Penile Cancer
Simone Giona
Abstract
Penile cancer is an uncommon type of malignancy. In 2020, globally, 36068 new cases were diagnosed according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer. The majority (over 95%) of penile cancers are squamous cell carcinoma. Penile cancer generally affects men from low socio-economic groups with poor hygienic standards. The highest figures have been recorded in countries such as South America, Africa, and India. Human papilloma virus (HPV16-18) infection, phimosis, and smoking have been found to be the strongest risk factors for penile cancer, and they can significantly increase its incidence. Penile cancer usually affects patients late in life, with the highest incidence recorded in the >60-year age group.
Topics & Concepts
Penile cancerMedicineIncidence (geometry)Human papilloma virusMalignancyCancerInternational agencyDermatologyBasal cellEpidemiologySkin cancerPenile CarcinomaPapillomaPenisGynecologyCervical cancerInternal medicineSurgeryPathologyOpticsPhysicsGenital Health and DiseaseCervical Cancer and HPV ResearchEthics and Legal Issues in Pediatric Healthcare