Penile cancer
The symptoms of cancer of the penis can include:
a growth or sore on your penis
bleeding or a foul smelling
a rash on your penis
difficulty pulling back your foreskin
a change in colour of your penis or foreskin
A growth or sore on your penis that doesn't heal within 4 weeks can be a symptom of penile cancer. It can look like a wart, ulcer or blister and might not be painful. It is important to know what is normal for you.
Tell your doctor about any changes.
Bleeding can be a sign of cancer, including from under your foreskin.
A foul smelling discharge can occur due to an infection or because something is irritating the skin of the penis. It can also be due to not washing often or thoroughly enough. Cancer of the penis is a much less common cause.
If you do not wash your penis every day, a cheese-like substance called smegma can build up. This is different from constant discharge. It is important to see your doctor if you notice something unusual for you.
You may notice that a rash develops on your penis. It is important to be aware of what is normal for you and report any changes to your doctor.
You may notice it becomes more difficult to draw back your foreskin.
You may see changes to the colour of your penis or foreskin. It is important to be aware of what is normal for you and report any changes to your doctor.
These symptoms can be a sign of a more advanced cancer:
a lump in the groin
feeling tired
abdominal (tummy) pain
pain in the bones
loss of weight
Last reviewed: 15 Dec 2023
Next review due: 15 Dec 2026
You usually start by seeing your GP. They will ask about your symptoms. They might refer you to a specialist and organise tests.
One of the first tests for penile cancer is a biopsy. Find out more about tests for penile cancer.
Some factors might increase your risk of developing penile cancer. These include the human papillomavirus (HPV), your age and having a tight foreskin (phimosis).
Treatments for penile cancer include surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The treatment you have depends on the stage and type of your penile cancer.
Penile cancer is cancer of the penis. It can develop anywhere on the penis but is most common under the foreskin in men who haven’t been circumcised or on the head of the penis (the glans).
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