UNDERSTANDING UROLOGY
Bladder & prostate cancer
Bladder and prostate cancer are among the conditions urologists check for most often. Early prostate cancer often causes no symptoms, and the symptoms below are more often caused by other, non-cancer conditions. They should still always be checked, because cancer found early is usually easier to treat.
What you may notice
- Blood in the urine, even once and even without pain – the main sign of bladder cancer
- Needing to pass urine more often or more urgently
- Difficulty starting, a weak flow, or feeling the bladder has not fully emptied
- Waking at night to pass urine
- Blood in the semen, or new difficulty with erections
- Lower back or bone pain, or weight loss you cannot explain
Get help quickly if
- You see blood in your urine – arrange a medical appointment promptly, even if it has stopped or there is no pain
- You suddenly cannot pass urine at all – this is an emergency
In an emergency in Kuwait, call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department.
How it is usually assessed
- A PSA blood test – a raised result can also be caused by an enlarged prostate or infection, and a normal result does not completely rule out cancer
- An examination, including of the prostate
- Urine tests
- An MRI scan of the prostate and, if needed, a biopsy (a small tissue sample)
- For bladder symptoms, a cystoscopy – a thin camera passed into the bladder – and scans
Treatment options
Treatment depends on the type and stage of the cancer, your general health and your preferences. For some low-risk prostate cancers, regular monitoring (active surveillance) may be suitable instead of immediate treatment. Other options can include surgery, radiotherapy and medicines. Some early bladder cancers can be removed through a cystoscopy. Your specialist team will explain the choices that apply to you.
What you can do
- If you are worried about your prostate cancer risk – for example because of your age or family history – you can ask a doctor about the PSA test and its benefits and limitations
- Smoking is the biggest risk factor for bladder cancer, and stopping lowers your risk
Based on NHS patient information: nhs.uk/conditions/prostate-cancer/ · nhs.uk/conditions/bladder-cancer/
This page is general information, not a personal medical assessment. Speak with a clinician about your own situation before starting or changing any treatment.