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The shape of the penis when erect can actually be a symptom of certain health problems. Yes, studies have even shown a curved penis can be an early sign of cancer or increase your risk of developing cancer. Here's the explanation.

Research proves a curved penis can be a sign of cancer

Research conducted from the Baylor College of Medicine in the United States found evidence that a curved penis, known in medical terms as Peyronie's disease, increases a person's risk of developing certain types of cancer. The study collected data from a total of 1.7 million people. As a result, men with Peyronie's disease were 43 percent more likely to develop stomach cancer, 19 percent more likely to develop melanoma skin cancer, and 39 percent more risk of developing testicular cancer.

Source: Peyronie's Disease Advocates

Peyronie's disease is a condition when flat scar tissue, also called fibrous plaque, forms on the penis. Usually plaque forms on the top, bottom, or side of the penis. Plaque can spread throughout the penis and cause the penis to become hard and bent over time.

This scar tissue can later cause pain during erection to impotence. The curves resulting from Peyronie's disease can make sexual penetration more difficult. In fact, over time the penis shrinks in size and shape until it gets shorter and shorter.

Research has found that the WNT2 gene plays a role in the occurrence of Peyronie's disease and several types of cancer. One of the researchers and urologist at Baylor College of Medicine, dr. Alexander Pastuszak, Ph.D., stated that research evidence on fathers and children who have Peyronie further strengthens the assumption that there is a gene mutation in this disease that increases a person to certain types of cancer.

Perform routine health checks

If you notice that you have a crooked penis, don't panic just yet. Not all crooked penises lead to Peyronie's disease and cancer. Generally, a slightly curved penis is normal and should not be a cause for concern. If the bend looks severe and unusual, then you can immediately get it checked out by a doctor.

According to the American Urological Association, if the penis curves suddenly and the curve becomes more visible when erect, it's best to see a doctor. Especially if this condition is accompanied by other symptoms such as pain during sex, penis shortening, erectile dysfunction occurs, and a hardened penis.

If the diagnosis says that you have Peyronie's disease, you also need to remain calm. The reason is, you are not sure that you will get cancer if you have this one condition. This disease can be treated with several medical procedures.

However, the good news is that this condition can improve and disappear on its own. Therefore, doctors usually ask you to wait 1-2 years before taking more serious medical actions such as surgery.

Usually the doctor will only give some oral medication and injections if the penis is bent to more than 30 degrees during an erection. Injectable drugs such as interferon help destroy the scar tissue that attacks the penis.

If your doctor says you have Peyronie's, then do routine health checks to see if any cancer cells are growing in your body. You need to be more sensitive to your health and the signals your body is giving you.

Early detection is the key to preventing the spread of cancer in your body. Dr. Patuszak stated that it is important to have a checkup every year or two to make sure the body is in good health and condition.