Your Guide to Urological Cancer: Types, Symptoms, Treatment & Early Detection

• Written by Sejal Singhania

  Reviewed by Munmi Sharma

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When it comes to cancer, early awareness can be life-saving, especially for urological cancer, which occurs silently. Urological cancer can impact the body's critical organs, such as the prostate, bladder, kidney, and testicle, wreaking havoc on the body's filtration and reproductive organs. Sometimes, a minor, overlooked symptom can be a warning sign of something more serious. This blog will discuss various types, symptoms, causes, prevention of urological cancer, and how early discovery can improve treatment and recovery outcomes.

What is Urological Cancer?

Urological cancer affects the urinary organs and the male reproductive system. Cancer like this affects the bladder, kidneys, adrenal glands, ureters, and urethra in women and men, the prostate, testicles, and penis. 

These cancers can substantially influence a person's quality of life and, if not treated promptly, may lead to serious medical problems or even be life-threatening. To effectively detect and prevent urological cancer in the early stage, it is crucial to understand the different types of cancers, their symptoms, and risk factors.

Types of Urological Cancer

Understanding the different kinds of cancer might help you recognise symptoms early and seek medical attention when needed. Here is an outline of the various forms of urological cancer:

• Bladder cancer - This common cancer starts in the bladder's cells, a sac-like structure holding urine. It is more prevalent among older persons, and men are more at risk than women. Doctors usually diagnose most people with bladder cancer after they discover blood in their urine.
• Renal (kidney) Cancer - This cancer develops in the tiny tubes that the kidneys use to filter waste from the blood and produce urine. It can also spread to the brain or lungs. Possible symptoms include back pain, an abdominal lump, or blood in the urine.
• Testicular Cancer - It occurs in one or both testicles, which are part of the male reproductive system. It typically affects men in their youth and middle years. Symptoms may include a testicular mass and swelling or pain in the scrotum.
• Prostate Cancer -This cancer affects the prostate, a tiny organ found behind the bladder that is essential for male reproductive health. It is the most prevalent cancer in men and frequently develops slowly. Doctors usually discover abnormal prostate tissue development through screening tests and blood tests for antigen levels.
• Penile Cancer - Penile cancer is a very uncommon kind of cancer that affects the skin or tissues of the penis. It is more prevalent in uncircumcised men and is connected to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Bleeding or foul-smelling discharge, a wound or irritation on the penis' surface, and abnormal growth are some of the symptoms.
• Urethral Cancer - This distinctive cancer affects the urethra, a tube that transports urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. The World Health Organisation and the TNM staging system have categorised it. Symptoms may include blood in the urine, a mass at the end of the penis, or bloody sexual discharge. 

Signs and Symptoms of Urological Cancer

Recognising the symptoms of urological cancer is essential since early detection can significantly enhance treatment results. However, symptoms could differ depending on the location, stage, and type of cancer. Here are some symptoms that could indicate a urological cancer:

• Blood in urine (Hematuria)
• Painful urination (Dysuria)
• Pelvic, Abdominal, or Lower Back Pain
• Changes in sexual function
• Frequent urination
• Unexplained Weight Loss and Fatigue
• A lump or swelling in the testicles
• Changes in the skin of the penis

These symptoms are not necessarily specific to cancer. It can also be associated with other diseases, but early medical attention is required for effective diagnosis and treatment.

Did You Know? Human kidneys filter 50 gallons of blood every day. The body relies on this process to eliminate waste materials and extra fluid, which is necessary for health.

Causes and Risk Factors of Urological Cancer

While the specific origin of urological cancer varies, many factors have been linked to an increased chance of getting the disease. Being aware of these hazards might help you make wise decisions about your health. Some of the causes and risks of developing urological cancer:

• Age: Most urological cancers become more common as people get older, especially prostate and bladder cancers.
• Gender: The majority of urological cancers are more common in men compared to women.
•  Family History: A family history of cancer may raise the risk of acquiring urological cancers. 
• Lifestyle Factors: Obesity, high-processed food diets, and a lack of physical activity can all lead to the development of urological cancer. 
• Infections: Bladder cancer risk can be raised by chronic infections, including urinary tract infections and HPV. 
• Occupational Exposures: Specific chemicals and industrial supplies, such as those used in the paint, textile, leather, and rubber sectors, can raise the risk of bladder and kidney cancers.
• Smoking: Smoking is a significant risk factor for several urological cancers, such as kidney, bladder and ureteral cancers.

Importance of Urological Cancer Early Detection

The prompt detection of urological cancers improves the chances of survival and effective treatment. Early-stage cancers are often easier to cure and may require fewer prescription medicines, reducing the risk of complications and improving the patient's quality of life. Regular screenings and early detection of signs can save lives.

Screening & Diagnostic Tests

Screening and diagnostic tests may differ based on the type of cancer or the individual's health. Regular screenings are essential for early diagnosis of urological cancers in males, especially those over 50 years or with a family history of cancer. The following are the most effective diagnostic tests for urological cancers:

• Urine Tests - Different types of urine tests, such as urine analysis, Urine Tumour Marker Tests, Urine Cytology, and Urine Culture tests, are the best for examining urine for blood cells. They are often used in bladder cancer diagnosis.
• Blood Tests - Different blood tests, including PSA, tumour marker, and kidney function tests, are used to screen for prostate cancer.
• Imaging Tests - Ultrasound, IVP (Intravenous Pyelogram), CT Scan (Computed Tomography),  and MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)  help visualise tumours in the kidneys, bladder, or prostate.
• Biopsy - Tissue sample collection and biopsy techniques are used to collect tissue samples for analysis to confirm the presence of cancer.
• Other Procedures - Many different tests are used to detect these cancers, such as cystoscopy, DRE (Digital Rectal Exam) and transrectal ultrasound (TRUS)

Lifestyle Choices that Prevent Urological Cancer

Healthy habits can substantially reduce the risk of developing urological cancers and improve overall well-being. These are some of the choices that can help you make lifestyle changes to prevent these cancers:

• A well-balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, healthy grains, and lean proteins can significantly reduce cancer risk.
• Frequent exercise is crucial for preserving a healthy weight and lowering the risk of several types of cancer, including bladder cancer.
• Smoking is a significant risk factor for kidney and bladder cancers. Giving up smoking can improve general health and reduce the risk of getting these types of cancer.
• Drinking too much alcohol is associated with a higher chance of developing several types of cancer, including urinary system cancer.
• Drinking lots of water can maintain adequate hydration, lower the risk of bladder cancer, and aid in the body's detoxification. Sufficient hydration also reduces the concentration of possible toxins in the urinary tract and dilutes urine.
• Obesity is known to increase the risk of various types of urological cancers, including kidney and prostate cancer. So, maintain a healthy diet to maintain your weight.
• Routine medical examinations and screenings can help find urological malignancies early, when they are most curable.

>>Read More: What Are the Steps To Find Out The Best Health Insurance Plans for Cancer Patients?

Takeaway!

Early diagnosis and treatment of urological cancer can improve patients' survival rates. Regular check-ups and monitoring the symptoms mentioned are necessary to keep you healthy and cured. Stress over money should not be a barrier to health protection. With specialised Cancer Insurance, you may get the proper care for urological cancer without worrying about the excessive expense of treatment. Invest in peace of mind since quick action and assistance can significantly impact.

Disclaimer: The above information is for reference purposes only. Kindly consult your general physician for verified medical advice. The health insurance benefits are subject to policy terms and conditions. Refer to your policy documents for more information.