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 health
seeking 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.