From Lisa Fayed,
Your Guide to Cancer.
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Penile cancer is a disease that obviously affects the penis. Penile cancer is rare in the US and Europe. The exact cause of penile cancer is not yet known, however, there are defined risk factors for the disease.

Penile Cancer Risk Factors

Infection of HPV. HPV is a virus that is transmitted from skin to skin contact during sexual intercourse. It is a very common virus and doesn't always prevent symptoms. HPV is also the leading cause of cervical cancer in women.

Smoking increases your risk factor for penile cancer.

Smoking increases your risk factor many types of cancers, not just penile cancer. When you smoke, you inhale harmful chemicals and substances that cause damage to cells' DNA. These carcinogens can cause damage to cells in the penis, thus causing penile cancer. Smoking also makes it difficult for the body to fight an HPV infection.

Age and Gender

Just being a male over the age of sixty increases your risk factor for penile cancer.

Being infected with AIDS virus

Having AIDS increases your risk factor for penile cancer, also. It is believed that the lowered immune system of people with AIDS is the factor.

Personal hygiene

Personal hygiene in the genital area is very important. Oily secretions, dead skin and bacteria can build up under the foreskin. This buildup is called smegma. Smegma can sometimes have a foul odor. It is believed that smegma may have cancer causing properties to it.

A word about risk factors...

having a increased risk factor for penile cancer does not mean that you will definitely develop the disease. It simply means that you have an increased chance of developing it. Discuss your risks with your physician. Together you can determine your risk and what course of action you need to take to lower your risk factor.