Disparities in Penile Cancer

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Epidemiology
• Health Disparities

Background:

• Penile cancer is a rare malignancy with notable racial and socioeconomic disparities in incidence and survival.
• Existing research highlights variations in disease outcomes across different demographic groups.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the epidemiological characteristics and survival outcomes of penile cancer.
• To identify sociodemographic factors influencing penile cancer incidence and mortality.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted for population-based studies published between 1990 and 2015.
• Exclusion criteria included case reports and non-English language articles to focus on robust data.

Main Results:

• Higher penile cancer incidence observed in Hispanic and African American men compared to white and Asian men.
• Associated risk factors include lower socioeconomic status, multiple sexual partners, history of STIs, and lack of circumcision with phimosis.
• African American men presented with younger age, higher disease stage, and worse survival rates; mortality increased with age, single marital status, and lower socioeconomic status.

Conclusions:

• Sociodemographic factors significantly impact penile cancer incidence and survival.
• Addressing these disparities through healthcare policy can improve access and minimize inequities in cancer care for all men.