Cervical cancer is a disease that is primarily associated with women. It develops in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. However, it is also possible for men to develop cervical cancer, although it is much less common.
In men, cervical cancer usually develops in the anus or penis, rather than in the cervix. Men are not immune to cervical cancer and should also be aware of the signs, symptoms, and risk factors.
The causes of this cancer in men are similar to those in women, with the most common cause being the human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, which is a sexually transmitted disease.
HPV is a common virus that is spread through sexual contact. There are more than 100 different types of HPV, but only a few are known to cause cancer.
HPV can infect the genitals, anus, and mouth of both men and women. Although most people who get HPV do not develop cervical cancer, the virus can cause abnormal cells in the cervix, which if not treated, can turn into cancer.
Other risk factors that may increase the likelihood of cervical cancer in men include:
- Having a weakened immune system: Men who have HIV or other conditions that weaken the immune system have an increased risk of cervical cancer.
- Having multiple sexual partners: Men who have multiple sexual partners, especially if their partners have had multiple sexual partners, have a higher risk of cervical cancer
- Engaging in anal intercourse: Men who engage in anal intercourse are at a higher risk of cervical cancer in the anus.
- Having a history of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Men who have a history of other STIs such as syphilis, gonorrhea, or chlamydia are more likely to develop cervical cancer.
- Smoking: Men who smoke cigarettes have a higher risk of cervical cancer.
Symptoms of cervical cancer in men may include:
- Bleeding or discharge from the anus or penis: This can happen when the cancer is in the anus or penis, especially during or after sexual activity.
- Pain during ejaculation or defecation: Men who have cervical cancer in the anus may experience pain or discomfort during ejaculation or defecation.
- Itching or burning sensation around the anus or penis: Men may feel an itchy or burning sensation in the area around the anus or penis, this can be an early warning sign of cervical cancer.
- Swelling or lumps around the anus or penis: Men may experience swelling or lumps around the anus or penis, which can be a sign of cervical cancer in these areas.
- Constant fatigue: Men with cervical cancer may experience constant fatigue, weakness, and general malaise.
Treatment for cervical cancer in men
Treatment for cervical cancer in men may include surgery, radiation therapy, and/or chemotherapy. The treatment options will depend on the stage of cancer, the location, and the overall health of the patient.
Surgery is often the first treatment option for this type of cancer in men, and it may involve the removal of the affected tissue in the anus or penis. Radiation therapy, which uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells, may also be used. Chemotherapy, which uses drugs to kill cancer cells, may also be used in some cases.
It’s important to note that, like cervical cancer in women, early detection and diagnosis greatly improve the chances of successful treatment. Regular check-ups, especially in high-risk individuals, are recommended to detect cervical cancer in men in the early stages.
Men who are at a higher risk for cervical cancer, such as those who have HIV or other conditions that weaken the immune system, should talk to their healthcare provider about the best screening schedule for them.
Conclusion
Cervical cancer is not exclusive to women. Men can also develop cervical cancer, although it is rare. The most common causes are related to HPV infection, a weak immune system, and other risk factors like smoking, having multiple sexual partners, and engaging in anal intercourse.
By being aware of the symptoms, engaging in safe sexual practices, leading a healthy lifestyle, and getting regular check-ups, it is possible to detect and treat this cancer in men in the early stages, with a higher chance of successful treatment.
It is important to remember that men also have a role to play in the prevention and early detection of cervical cancer, not just women. By taking care of ourselves, we can take the necessary steps to lower our risk of cervical cancer and increase our chances of successful treatment.
