AWARENESS OF PENILE OSSIFICATION AMONG MEN: A PILOT EXPLORATORY CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

ABSTRACT Penile ossification is a rare condition characterized by bone formation within the penis, often associated with Peyronie’s disease, trauma, or chronic inflammation; however, awareness of this condition among men remains largely unknown. This study aimed to assess awareness, perceptions, and health-seeking intentions regarding penile ossification among Nigerian men. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 262 predominantly young, educated men using a structured self-administered questionnaire, which collected sociodemographic data, awareness, perceptions, and healthseeking behaviors. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the findings, and ethical approval was obtained with informed consent from all participants. Results indicated that while 73.8% of respondents were aware of general penile health conditions, only 26.7% had heard of penile ossification. Approximately 47.1% correctly distinguished it from an erection, whereas 41.3% were uncertain. Most respondents (86.1%) expressed willingness to learn more about the condition, and 95.0% indicated they would recommend hospital consultation for unusual penile changes. Although 12.7% of the respondents believed that spiritual or traditional interventions may be required, a majority disagreed (58.7%). Overall, awareness of penile ossification among Nigerian men is limited, despite positive attitudes toward biomedical care, highlighting the need for targeted educational interventions to improve knowledge, correct misconceptions, and promote timely health-seeking behavior.