Second primary cancer risk after penile squamous cell carcinoma: A population-based study

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Cancer Epidemiology
• Cancer Survivorship

Background:

• Penile squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) survivors may have an increased risk of second primary cancers (SPCs).
• Population-based data on SPC risk in US penile SCC survivors are limited.
• Understanding long-term cancer risk is crucial for patient follow-up.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the risk of SPCs among penile SCC survivors in the United States.
• To identify specific risk factors and cancer types associated with SPC development.
• To inform clinical awareness and survivorship research for penile SCC patients.

Main Methods:

• Population-based retrospective cohort study utilizing the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database (2000-2022).
• Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) and excess absolute risks (EARs) were calculated to compare SPC risk with the general population.
• Fine-Gray competing-risk regression analysis identified factors associated with SPC development.

Main Results:

• 11.1% of 5,378 penile SCC patients developed at least one SPC.
• Overall SPC risk was significantly elevated (SIR 1.17), with higher risks in younger patients (<60), Black individuals, and those with basaloid SCC.
• Elevated SPC risk was observed within the first year and persisted for 5 years, with the highest risk for anal/anorectal cancers (SIR 5.00).

Conclusions:

• Penile SCC survivors have a significantly increased risk of developing SPCs, particularly HPV-related cancers.
• The findings highlight the importance of continued surveillance for SPCs in penile SCC survivors, especially within the first five years.
• Increased awareness of SPC risk, particularly for anal cancers, is warranted for clinicians managing penile SCC survivors.