Urological Cancers
Urological cancers refer to malignant tumors that occur in the urinary tract and reproductive system organs. Although more common in men, these types of cancer can also be seen in women, and when diagnosed and treated early, the success rate is quite high. Prostate, bladder, kidney, testicular and penile cancers are the most common urological cancers. Prostate cancer, in particular, is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers in men worldwide and can directly affect quality and duration of life. Similarly, bladder cancer is a disease that is associated with environmental factors such as smoking and exposure to chemicals, and the treatment process must be well planned.
Urological Cancers
Urological cancers can often manifest themselves with changes in urinary or sexual functions. However, in many cases, there are no obvious symptoms in the early stages, which can make the diagnosis process difficult. For example, prostate cancer usually progresses slowly and may not show symptoms until it reaches advanced stages. Kidney cancer is usually detected incidentally during imaging studies. Therefore, regular health checks and being aware of the symptoms are vital in the early diagnosis of urological cancers. By the time symptoms appear, the cancer is usually advanced, so it is recommended that individuals with risk factors do not neglect screening tests.
Urological Cancer Types and Details
1. Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in men and usually occurs in older age. The prostate gland plays an important role in the male reproductive system, producing the fluid that nourishes sperm. The cancer usually begins in the outer part of the gland and may not cause symptoms in the early stages. However, as it progresses, symptoms such as difficulty urinating and blood in the semen or urine may occur.
Risk Factors:
• Advanced age (risk increases in men over 50).
• Family history of prostate cancer.
• Black race (higher risk than other ethnic groups).
• High fat diet and obesity.
Treatment Methods:
• Active Surveillance: If the cancer is slowly progressing, it is closely monitored.
• Surgery: The prostate gland is removed with surgery called radical prostatectomy.
• Radiotherapy: High-energy rays are used to destroy cancerous tissue.
• Hormone Therapy: Stops the growth of cancer by lowering testosterone levels.
• Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy: These are treatment methods used in advanced stages.
2. Bladder Cancer
Bladder cancer begins in the cells lining the bladder and can spread outside the bladder if not diagnosed early. It is more common in men and people over the age of 50. One of the main causes of bladder cancer is smoking.
Symptoms:
• Blood in the urine (usually painless).
• Frequent urination or a burning sensation while urinating.
• Pain in the pelvic area.
Treatment Options:
• Transurethral Resection (TUR-B): Endoscopic removal of cancerous tissue in the bladder.
• Intravesical Therapy: Injecting medication into the bladder to prevent cancer from recurring.
• Surgery: In advanced stages, part or all of the bladder may be removed (cystectomy).
• Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy: Used in cases of spreading cancer or after surgery.
3. Kidney Cancer
Kidney cancer develops in the tubular cells of the kidney and is often not diagnosed in the early stages because it does not cause noticeable symptoms. In advanced stages, it can present with symptoms such as blood in the urine, flank pain, and unexplained weight loss.
Risk Factors:
• High blood pressure and obesity.
• Smoking.
• Long-term use of painkillers.
• Family history.
Treatment Options:
• Partial or Radical Nephrectomy: Part or all of the cancerous kidney is removed.
• Targeted Therapies: Specific drugs are used to stop the growth of cancer.
• Immunotherapy: Activates the immune system to fight cancer.
4. Testicular Cancer
Testicular cancer is a type of cancer that is seen especially in young men (15-35 years old). It usually presents itself as a painless mass or swelling in the testicle. When this type of cancer is diagnosed early, the treatment success rate is quite high.
Treatment Options:
• Surgery (Orchiectomy): Removal of the cancerous testicle.
• Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy: Used after surgery or in advanced stages.
5. Penile Cancer
Penile cancer is a rare but serious type of cancer. It is more common in uncircumcised men and those with HPV infection. The most common symptoms are a sore, discolored, or lump on the penis.
Treatment Options:
• It can be treated with surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy.
Risk Factors and Protection
Risk factors for urological cancers include genetic predisposition, smoking, chemical exposure and infections. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, having regular screenings and minimizing risk factors can be effective in preventing these cancers.
Early Diagnosis and Its Importance
Early diagnosis greatly increases the success of treatment in urological cancers. Regular doctor check-ups, screening tests and being aware of the symptoms are vital. In particular, PSA testing is recommended for prostate cancer, urine cytology for bladder cancer and imaging methods for kidney cancer.
Urological cancers can cause serious health problems, but thanks to modern medical methods and personalized treatment approaches, life expectancy and quality can be significantly increased.