Alastair Munro's penile cancer surgery features in BBC documentary
Updated
Updated · BBC.com · May 6
Alastair Munro's penile cancer surgery features in BBC documentary
7 articles · Updated · BBC.com · May 6
The 49-year-old Inverness engineer underwent a seven-hour operation at Edinburgh's Western General, removing a tumour, 30% of his penis and groin lymph nodes after scans showed spread.
He later had further surgery and radiotherapy, was given the all-clear in February, but now has lymphedema affecting urination and sex and faces a high risk of recurrence within two years.
Munro said filming aimed to prompt men with lumps, bleeding or erection problems to seek help early, while surgeon CJ Shukla said Scotland has the UK's highest penile cancer incidence.
How can public health campaigns overcome embarrassment and stigma to encourage earlier diagnosis of rare male cancers like penile cancer?
What innovative surgical and psychological support options exist for men coping with the aftermath of penile cancer treatment?
Could expanding HPV vaccination for boys and men significantly reduce Scotland’s rising penile cancer rates by 2030?
Penile Cancer in Scotland: Rising Incidence, Complex Surgery, and the Push for Awareness
Overview
In May 2026, Alastair Munro underwent a complex surgery to treat advanced penile cancer, which had progressed due to delayed diagnosis. Despite the operation, the cancer recurred, requiring further treatment, and he developed lymphedema, leading to planned reconstructive surgery later that year. Motivated by his experience and the challenges of late diagnosis, Munro became a passionate advocate, sharing his story in a BBC documentary to raise awareness and reduce stigma. Meanwhile, Scotland faces a rising incidence of penile cancer, driven by risk factors like HPV infection and low vaccination rates in deprived communities, highlighting the urgent need for early detection, prevention, and better patient support.