Urologic cancers

Cancer of the prostate is the second most common cancer in American men, according to the American Cancer Society, and the third leading cause of cancer death in men.

The recommendation is to begin screening at the age of 40. Screening involves a PSA blood exam and a digital rectal exam.

Bladder cancer is the fourth most common cause in men. Bladder cancer typically develops mid-to-late in life.

There is not currently a routine screening for bladder cancer, however, blood in the urine is often one of the first signs. If blood is detected in the urine, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a member of the urology team.

Kidney cancer is more common today because the number of cases is increasing and it is being detected earlier.

Signs may include blood in the urine, low back pain on one side, loss of appetite, weight loss, and fatigue. Tests that the urology team can utilize to detect kidney cancer include a urine test or imaging tests such as CT and MRI scans.

Testicular cancer is the most common form of cancer in men, ages 15 – 35, and is one of the most treatable cancers, especially if caught early.

Most of the time, a lump on the testicle is the first symptom, or the testicle might be swollen or larger than normal. In the last 50 years, treatment has changed radically in terms of overall success increasing the mortality rate from the 40% range to less than 3%.