Urological cancers are cancers that affect the organs of the urinary system and male reproductive system, including the kidneys, bladder, prostate, testicles, and urethra & penis

• Prostate cancer (most common in men)
  
• Bladder cancer
  
• Kidney (renal) cancer
  
• Testicular cancer
  
• Penile cancer (rare)
  
• Urethral cancer (very rare)
  

Symptoms vary depending on the organ involved but may include:

• Blood in urine
• Passing tissue bits in urine
  
• Frequent or painful urination
  
• Abdominal or back pain
  
• Difficulty urinating
  
• Testicular lump or swelling
  
• Unexplained weight loss
• Urethral discharge (bloody)
• Non healing painless ulcer on the penis

Risk factors include:

• Smoking
  
• Family history
  
• Chronic bladder irritation or infection
  
• Exposure to certain chemicals
• Age and gender (older men are more at risk for prostate and bladder cancer)

Diagnosis may include:

• Urine tests and blood tests
  
• Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI
  
• Cystoscopy
• Biopsy of the tumor or organ

Many urological cancers, especially if detected early, are curable. Testicular cancer has a very high cure rate. Regular screening helps detect cancer early.

No, but it should never be ignored. Blood in urine can be a sign of bladder or kidney cancer, or may occur due to infections or stones. A proper evaluation is needed.

Prostate cancer affects the prostate gland in men, mostly over the age of 50. Family history, age, and diet play a role in increasing risk.

Yes. Women can develop kidney, bladder, and urethral cancers, although the prostate and testicular cancers are specific to men.

Yes. Smoking is one of the biggest risk factors for bladder and kidney cancer. It increases the risk of cancer cells forming in the urinary tract.

Treatment depends on the type and stage of cancer and may include:

• Surgery (to remove the tumor or organ)
  
• Radiation therapy
  
• Chemotherapy
  
• Immunotherapy
• Active surveillance (in early-stage prostate cancer)

Not always. In some early-stage or slow-growing cancers (like prostate cancer), active monitoring or radiation may be preferred. Surgery is advised when cancer is aggressive or large.

Nephrectomy is the surgical removal of a kidney, often done for kidney cancer. Depending on the case, either a partial or complete nephrectomy is performed.

Yes, early-stage bladder cancers can often be treated through TURBT (Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor) without removing the bladder. Advanced cases may require more extensive surgery.

No. Some prostate cancers are slow-growing and may not require immediate treatment. However, others can be fast-spreading, so early diagnosis and risk assessment are important.

Testicular cancer affects the testicles, usually in younger men. It is highly treatable, often with surgery, followed by chemotherapy or radiation if needed.

• Avoid smoking
  
• Maintain a healthy weight
  
• Drink plenty of water
  
• Eat a balanced diet
  
• Go for regular check-ups, especially if you’re over 50 or have a family history

Yes. Like all cancers, urological cancers can spread (metastasize) if not treated early. Early detection improves the chances of a complete cure.

Men over 50 years of age (or 45 if there’s family history) should talk to their doctor about PSA testing and digital rectal exams for early detection.

You can consult Dr. P. Niranjanraj, Urologist at Niranjan Hospital, Perambalur, for advanced and personalized diagnosis and treatment of all types of urological cancers.