Kidney cancer, also known as renal cell carcinoma, is among the top 10 cancers a man is likely to get. Knowing the symptoms of kidney cancer can help you be alert to any changes in your body that might indicate the cancer is developing.
The team of experienced urologists at Urology of Greater Atlanta use state-of-the-art diagnostics to identify and evaluate kidney tumors, including ureteral and renal pelvic cancer. We also offer personalized treatment plans to remove cancer and restore your health.
Call our practice or make an appointment online at one of our offices in Georgia today for expert urological health care that you can trust!
What Is Kidney Cancer in Males?
Kidney cancer in males is very similar to kidney cancer in females. However, males are more likely to get kidney cancer than females.
According to the CDC, more than 43,000 men and 25,000 women get kidney and renal pelvis cancers every year.
What Are the Kidney Cancer Symptoms (Male)?
The symptoms of kidney cancer in males are similar to those in females. Listed below are some of the symptoms of male kidney cancer.
- Blood in your urine.
- A lump or swelling in the kidney area
- Flank pain or discomfort
- A loss of appetite.
- Unexplained recurring fever
- High blood pressure
- Extreme tiredness and weakness.
If you are concerned with any of these symptoms, book an appointment to speak to a healthcare professional to get a proper diagnosis.
Kidney Cancer Diagnosis (Males)
The urologists at Urology of Greater Atlanta diagnose kidney cancer with a physical exam and various testing methods. After reviewing your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle factors, your physician will feel your back, sides, and abdomen for any lumps.
They also usually order imaging services, including CT scans and MRIs. If the imaging studies show abnormalities, your doctor may perform a biopsy to collect a tissue sample to check for abnormal cells or evaluate the stage of your cancer.
Staging of Kidney Cancer in Males
Doctors will use the same staging system for kidney cancer as is used for other cancers.
The staging is found by evaluating how aggressive the cancer cells are in the kidney tumor, the affected lymph nodes and metastasis, or the spread of the cancer. Combining these factors will determine the stage of the cancer.
Kidney Cancer Treatment (Males)
Your urologist will create a personalized treatment plan to fight kidney cancer. If you have an elevated risk of the disease, your doctor might recommend active surveillance.
However, if your condition is more advanced, your urologist might suggest a procedure to remove the abnormal cells, such as cryotherapy or radiofrequency ablation.
In severe cases, your urologist can perform surgery to remove the tumor or the entire affected kidney. They offer traditional open surgeries, as well as minimally-invasive and robotic procedures.
You might also need chemotherapy or radiation to ensure that all cancerous cells have been destroyed.
Can Kidney Cancer Be Prevented?
There is no proven method of preventing kidney cancer. However, there are certain risk factors associated with an increased chance of developing kidney cancer.
Eliminating these risk factors can reduce the chances of developing kidney cancer. The risk factors associated with kidney cancers are listed below.
- Smoking
- Long-term medication use
- High blood pressure
- Kidney disease
- Impaired kidney function
- Diabetes
- Obesity
Prognosis
Statistics from the National Cancer Institute show that those with kidney cancer have an average 5-year survival rate of 76%. This means you are 76% as likely to survive for 5 years after a diagnosis than someone without. The rate of survival is an average and changes depending on the staging of cancer.
- Localized: The 5-year survival rate is 93% when cancer is only in the kidneys.
- Regional: The rate is 71% when cancer has spread to nearby tissues.
- Distant: The rate is 14% if cancer has spread throughout the body and is present in other organs.
Key Takeaway Regarding Kidney Cancer in Males
Kidney cancer symptoms in males are similar to those in females. If you have concerns about symptoms or are wondering if you have a pelvic tumor, be sure to seek the help of a medical professional.
Contact Urology of Greater Atlanta today or request an appointment online for expert diagnosis and effective treatment options to fight kidney cancer.
