This September, NHS Lincolnshire Integrated Care Board (ICB) is raising awareness of urological cancers during Urological Cancer Awareness Month. These are cancers that affect the urinary tract in both men and women, as well as male reproductive organs. These include:
- Bladder Cancer
- Kidney Cancer
- Testicular Cancer
- Penile Cancer
Watch for common symptoms
Experiencing any of these doesn’t automatically mean you have cancer, but it’s important to get checked if they occur:
- Blood in your urine
- Pain in the lower tummy or one side of the lower back
- Needing to pee more often, especially at night
- Difficulty urinating (pain, discomfort, or needing to strain)
- Urgent need to pee
- Feeling like your bladder isn’t fully empty after peeing
- A lump in the testicle, groin, or on the penis
If you notice any of these symptoms, make an appointment with your GP. They can run simple tests to help identify any issues early.
Early detection makes a difference, and if a diagnosis is confirmed, there are a wide range of treatment options available, depending on the type and stage of cancer.
Dr Sunil Hindocha, GP and Medical Director, NHS Lincolnshire Integrated Care Board, said:
“Anyone who notices blood when they pass urine or has experienced any of the other symptoms for three weeks or more, should contact their GP practice to have it checked out even if it just once.
“There are a range of tests that can be carried out and not all instances will result in a cancer diagnosis. It is always better to get it checked out as if it is a positive result, it is more treatable if diagnosed early.”