Did you know more than 10 million people die every year of cancer? Different factors may lead to cancer, including lifestyle and genetics. Cancer is usually deadly, but there is a high chance of survival when detected early. Regular cancer screening can help you discover the disease early and start treatments early. Knowing cancer and proper cancer care can also help you survive the disease. Talk to the Phoenix genitourinary cancer providers for the best and most accurate diagnosis and treatment. This post will explain genitourinary cancer, its symptoms, and its treatments.
What are genitourinary cancers?
Cancer occurs when there is an abnormal growth of cells in your body’s organs and tissues. It may develop in almost any part of your body, leading to different forms of cancer.
Genitourinary cancers are cancers that affect the male reproductive and urinary systems. They include the following.
Prostate cancer
Prostate cancer occurs when a malignant or abnormal growth of cells develops in your prostate. The prostate gland produces the seminal fluid that combines with sperm to enhance ejaculation. Prostate cancer develops gradually, but in some cases, it can be aggressive and spread quickly to other parts of the body.
Prostate cancer may occur if you have a family history of prostate cancer, are older than 50, or are obese.
Kidney cancer
The abnormal growth and division of cells in your kidney tissue lead to kidney cancer. Kidney cancer may occur in different types. Your risk for the disease increases with age.
Kidney cancer grows slowly, and you may notice symptoms in the early stages.
Bladder cancer
The bladder stores urine. Bladder cancer develops in the bladder lining cells. The symptoms are noticeable during the early stages, and you can receive successful treatments.
However, bladder cancer may come back, hence follow-up tests after treatment are essential.
Smoking, exposure to chemicals, chronic bladder inflammation, and a family history of bladder cancer may increase your risk for bladder cancer.
Testicular cancer
It occurs in your testicles. Testicular cancer affects the glands inside your scrotum, which produce male sex hormones and sperm.
Penile cancer
It is rare and affects the skin of the penis.
What are the symptoms of genitourinary cancers?
Most cancers do not show any symptoms until they are at a later stage. However, if you notice abnormal changes, including urinary problems, do not hesitate to seek medical care.
Depending on the specific cancer, you may experience tiredness, loss of appetite, weight loss, painful urination, erectile dysfunction, and back pain. You may also encounter blood in urine or semen, a rash, enlargement, or bleeding.
What are the treatment options for genitourinary cancers?
The Arizona Center for Cancer Care offers personalized treatment depending on the type of cancer and its current stage. Available treatment options include ablation, surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. They also offer immunotherapy and clinical trials for improved cancer treatments.
Prevention is usually the best treatment. Routine cancer screening may help detect cancer and allow you the chance to receive successful treatment.
Contact Arizona Center for Cancer Care today to receive exceptional cancer care, diagnosis, and treatment.
