A leading urological surgeon has issued a vital call to action for men across the UK, outlining a simple five-point "M.O.T." for penile health that takes just minutes to perform. Consultant Urological Surgeon Shafi Wardak of The Forbury Clinic stresses that proactive checks can reveal early warning signs of serious conditions, from infections to life-threatening cancers.
The Critical Importance of Early Detection
Mr Wardak emphasised that the penis acts as a crucial "barometer" for a man's overall health, due to its complex network of blood vessels, nerves, and pelvic muscles. Subtle changes can signal systemic problems, including heart or metabolic issues, often manifesting as erectile dysfunction or urinary difficulties. This is particularly critical for conditions like prostate cancer, which affects one in eight men in their lifetime.
In the UK, approximately 55,300 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer annually, resulting in around 12,000 deaths each year. Survival rates starkly highlight the need for vigilance: stage 1 detection offers an almost 100% survival chance, while at stage 4, only half of men survive past five years.
The Five-Point Health Check Explained
1. Monitor Changes in Urination
Alterations in frequency, stream strength, or urine colour demand medical attention. Needing to urinate frequently, especially with a burning sensation, can indicate a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) or an overactive bladder. It may also point to prostate issues like Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) – a non-cancerous enlargement – or even diabetes, as the body tries to expel excess glucose.
Conversely, urinating less can signal dehydration or severe kidney problems. A weak or interrupted stream is often linked to prostate obstruction, potentially from BPH or cancer, or urethral strictures. Dark brown urine may suggest liver issues, while red or pink urine could indicate blood from infections, kidney stones, or cancers of the bladder or kidney.
2. Inspect for Skin Changes
Regularly check the penile skin for rashes, lumps, blisters, ulcers, white patches, scaling, cracking, or discolouration. A persistent rash might be contact dermatitis or a fungal infection. Blisters forming painful ulcers are often a sign of genital herpes, an STI that is typically manageable but can be dangerous for those with weakened immune systems.
Painless ulcers may indicate syphilis, a curable STI that causes severe damage if untreated. White patches could be lichen sclerosis, leading to scarring and phimosis (tight foreskin), a condition the British Association of Urological Surgeons notes can encourage penile tumours in uncircumcised men. Scaling may suggest psoriasis or eczema.
3. Check for Penile Curvature
Some curvature during erection is normal, but excessive bending may indicate Peyronie's disease, where scar tissue causes significant curvature, discomfort, and self-image issues. Affecting an estimated 3-10% of UK men (most commonly over 60), other signs include a firm lump on the shaft, pain, or changes in size.
Management includes lifestyle changes: maintaining a healthy weight, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding tobacco. Treatments range from medication and shockwave therapy to surgery for severe cases.
4. Be Aware of Penile Odour
A persistent unpleasant smell often points to inadequate hygiene or infections like balanitis – an inflammation common in uncircumcised men. Symptoms include pain urinating, thick discharge, and difficulty retracting the foreskin. Causes range from yeast infections and STIs to diabetes and harsh soaps.
Regular washing with mild soap and wearing breathable, clean cotton underwear are key preventive measures to reduce moisture and bacterial growth.
5. Note Weak or Reduced Ejaculations
A noticeable reduction in ejaculate volume or force can be a sign of underlying health issues. While volume can decrease with age, it may also indicate low testosterone, dehydration, ejaculatory duct blockages, or chronic conditions like diabetes.
Reduced force often stems from weakened pelvic floor muscles due to ageing or lack of exercise. Strengthening these muscles through targeted exercises, alongside lifestyle changes and medication, can often improve the condition.
A Proactive Step for Long-Term Health
Mr Wardak's guidance underscores a powerful, simple message: spending a few minutes on regular self-checks empowers men to spot early warning signs. Given the high prevalence of conditions like prostate cancer and the dramatic difference early diagnosis makes, this proactive approach is not just about penile health—it's a vital component of overall wellbeing. Any persistent or concerning changes should prompt a visit to a GP for professional evaluation.
