Cancers of the prostate, bladder, urethra, penis, testis, and kidneys
Prostate Cancer:
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men, affecting the prostate gland—a small walnut-shaped gland located below the bladder. It occurs when abnormal cells in the prostate gland grow and multiply uncontrollably. Prostate cancer typically develops slowly, and early-stage prostate cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. Regular screenings, such as prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams (DREs), are crucial for early detection. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy.
Bladder Cancer:
Bladder cancer originates in the cells lining the bladder, the organ responsible for storing urine. It typically starts in the innermost layer of the bladder and can spread deeper into the bladder wall or to other parts of the body if left untreated. Common symptoms include blood in the urine, frequent urination, and pain during urination. Diagnosis involves various tests, such as urine cytology, imaging scans, and cystoscopy. Treatment options include surgery, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, depending on the stage and grade of the cancer.
Urethral Cancer:
Urethral cancer is a rare form of cancer that affects the urethra—the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. It can occur in both men and women, but it is more common in men. Urethral cancer can cause symptoms like blood in the urine, difficulty urinating, and a lump or mass in the urethra. Diagnostic procedures may include imaging tests, urethral biopsies, and cystoscopy. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
Penile Cancer:
Penile cancer refers to the development of cancerous cells in the tissues of the penis. It usually begins on the skin cells covering the head (glans) or the foreskin of the penis. Penile cancer is relatively rare but can have significant impacts on a person’s quality of life. Symptoms may include changes in the skin of the penis, lumps, sores, or discharge. Diagnosis involves physical examination, biopsy, and imaging tests. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
Testicular Cancer:
Testicular cancer develops in the testicles, which are responsible for producing male hormones and sperm. It is the most common cancer in young men aged 15 to 35. The most common symptom is a painless lump or swelling in the testicles. Other symptoms may include testicular pain, discomfort, or a dull ache. Diagnosis involves physical examination, blood tests, ultrasound, and biopsy if necessary. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
Kidney Cancer:
Kidney cancer, also known as renal cancer, begins in the kidneys, which are responsible for filtering waste from the blood and producing urine. The most common type of kidney cancer is renal cell carcinoma. Symptoms may include blood in the urine, back pain, weight loss, and fatigue. Diagnostic procedures may include imaging tests, blood tests, and a biopsy. Treatment options depend on the stage and may include surgery, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and radiation therapy.