Health Seeking Behaviour of Men with Acquired Penile Curvature: A Population-based Study

Abstract

Objective: A contemporary study reported a higher prevalence of Peyronie's disease than historically considered, but not reflected in practice. This study evaluates health-seeking behaviour of men reporting an acquired penile curvature. Patients & Methods: A population-based survey was conducted at an ambulatory care center and university campus. Men reporting acquired penile curvature after age 16 were assessed for demographics, symptoms and health-seeking behaviour. Results: 444/5411 men reported an acquired penile curvature. Median age was 58 years. 41% had curvature over 30o. 93% of men did not seek medical attention. Regardless of deformity severity (>45°), common reasons not to seek help were: believed it was 'normal* (65%), no treatment available (13%) and embarrassment (13%) particularly in younger men (p = 0.03). Health seeking was more if had reported penile injury, sexual dysfunction, and ventral curvature, independent of relationship status or if sexually active (p = 1.00). Men with regular clinic attendance for chronic (p = 0.08) or urological diseases (p = 0.05) were not more likely to seek help despite the opportunity. 1% of men were declined by GP for referral. Conclusion: Men with acquired penile curvature did not seek medical attention due to a lack of disease awareness and embarrassment, especially if young. Public education and centralized care may help.