If you notice blood in your pee, even if it’s ‘just the once’, tell your doctor.
Every year, around 16,600 people in England are diagnosed with bladder or kidney cancer. Around 7,500 people die from bladder or kidney cancer in England each year.
Knowing what to look out for saves lives.
Both cancers affect men and women, although they are more common in men. Most people diagnosed with these cancers are over 50. Those who have worked in manufacturing jobs that involved the use of rubber, dyes, textiles, plastics or certain other chemicals are more prone to developing bladder cancer. People on kidney dialysis are more at risk of developing kidney cancer.
If you notice any blood in your pee, even if it is just once, tell your doctor straight away. The chances are it’s nothing serious, but these cancers are more treatable if they are found early.
Blood in your pee is the most common symptom of both types of cancer.
Other kidney cancer symptoms include:
Other bladder cancer symptoms include:
You’re not wasting anyone’s time by getting your symptoms checked out and, if it’s not serious, your mind will be put at rest. But if it is a condition such as kidney or bladder cancer, early detection makes it easier to treat.
Seeing your doctor early could save your life.
Having symptoms doesn’t mean it’s cancer. Some symptoms may be caused by an infection or kidney or bladder stones, all of which may need treatment. But don’t try and diagnose yourself. Go and see your doctor now to find out for sure.
Looking out for others
If you know anyone who has any of these symptoms, insist they see their doctor.
A healthy lifestyle can reduce your chances of getting cancer, including diet, being a healthy weight and not smoking.
Stop smoking
It’s never too late to quit. No matter what age you stop smoking, it reduces your chances of developing kidney or bladder cancer and makes a real difference to your health in general. There’s plenty of support and help available from the NHS. Visit smokefree.nhs.uk or call 0800 169 0169.
Look after yourself
Try to maintain a healthy weight and keep active. Swimming, cycling, dancing – the more you can do, the better. Even walking to your local shops instead of taking the car can make a difference.
Eat healthily
Try to get your 5-a-day. So eat more vegetables and fruit, fish and wholegrain foods. Eat less fattening foods like cakes and pastries and fewer processed meats like bacon and ham.
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