The bladder is a muscular, hollow organ in the lower abdomen. The most common sign of bladder cancer is blood in the urine. Other signs may include pain during urination and frequent urination. Bladder cancer occurs predominantly in elderly men and less frequently in women and younger men.

Each of the two kidneys is about the size of a fist and bean-shaped. The function of the kidneys is to filter the blood for waste (urine). Each kidney has a tube, called a ureter, through which it passes the urine to the bladder.

The most common signs of kidney cancer are blood in the urine, unintentional weight loss, and persistent back pain. If detected and treated at an early stage, chances are good for a full recovery. Routine physical exams and testing of blood and urine samples provide opportunity to screen for cancer of the bladder, kidney, and other organs of the urinary system. If you are at high risk for cancer, additional tests may be performed.

Learn more about prostate cancer.

For information or referrals, please call 443-777-7900.