Three of the most common cancers fall within the remit of urologists.
Prostate cancer
Prostate cancer is on the increase; it is the second commonest cancer in men over 50 and the commonest cause of death from cancer in this age group. Not before time, prostate cancer is now receiving media attention which is attracting more money for research.
Earlier diagnosis of the disease, with complete removal of the prostate (radical prostatectomy) or innovative forms of radiotherapy (brachytherapy) are having a major impact on the disease.
To see more detailed information about suspected prostate cancer click here.
Bladder cancer commonly causes blood in the urine - an alarming symptom which means patients usually seek early advice. The urologist’s ability to pass a small flexible cystoscope into the bladder in a clinic or day surgery unit makes for rapid diagnosis and follow-up of bladder tumours.
The treatment of these growths, and those affecting the kidney, is primarily surgical removal by the urologist, sometimes followed by other forms of treatment such as radiotherapy or chemotherapy.
The overall management of patients with urological cancers is very much a team effort involving urologists, radiologists, oncologists and specialist nurses working together in designated cancer centres.
To see more detailed information about blood in the urine click here.
Read more from the "Action On Bladder Cancer" group (N.B. opens in a new browser window)
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The tumour on the right side of the bladder is resected piecemeal using a wire loop and high-energy electrical current. Lower-energy current is used to seal any bleeding points. The tumour fragments are washed out of the bladder at the end of the procedure and sent for microscopic analysis.
(video courtesy of Mr KN Bullock) | |
Testis cancer is the commonest cancer in men between 20 and 50.
Its treatment is one of the cancer success stories and, with early diagnosis, surgery followed by radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy will cure most patients even if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
To see more detailed information about suspected testicular cancer click here.
