Men are being urged to take immediate action if they notice a warning sign of cancer - blood in the urine, also known as haematuria. Dr. Jiri Kubes from the Proton Therapy Center stresses the significance of not ignoring this symptom, as it could be an indication of prostate, bladder, or kidney cancers.
Dr. Kubes advises, “If you notice blood in your urine even once, don’t wait for it to happen again. Once is enough to make an appointment with your GP. It could be nothing, but if it is something then a timely diagnosis can save your life.”
Prostate cancer, the most prevalent cancer in UK men, is responsible for approximately 55,000 new cases every year, according to Cancer Research UK. The charity warns that around 12,000 fatalities from the disease are projected, but early detection offers a promising survival rate.
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The walnut-sized prostate gland is affected by this cancer, with symptoms typically appearing only when the cancer has reached a size that exerts pressure on the urethra. Additional symptoms include a weak urine flow, increased frequency of urination, and difficulty initiating urination. Dr. Kubes emphasizes that any unusual urinary changes should be promptly assessed by a GP.
Individuals over 50, those with a family history of prostate cancer, and members of the black community are at higher risk. Blood in the urine may also indicate bladder cancer, presenting as blood streaks or brownish urine. Haematuria can also signify kidney cancer, accompanied by rib and waist pain, a back lump, or decreased appetite.
While haematuria can have various causes, including non-cancerous conditions like urinary tract infections, Dr. Kubes stresses the importance of not disregarding these signs, as early identification of cancer can lead to more effective treatment options. Proton beam therapy, available for prostate cancer, offers the potential for fewer side effects by targeting cancer cells with precision.
For more information, visit ukprotontherapy.co.uk.