Most urinary tract cancers are more common in men than woman, with the risk increasing with age. Other risk factors include infections of the urinary system as well as a family history of related cancers.

While there is no way to completely prevent cancers of the urinary tract there are several lifestyle risk factors that can be mitigated to help improve your chances. Common risk factors may include:

• Smoking, people who smoke are 3 times more likely to develop cancers of the urinary tract than people who do not smoke
• Exposure to aromatic amines, such as those used in the dye industry
• Use of dietary supplements containing aristolochic acid
• Regular dehydration
• Obesity
• Exposure to radiation

Many cancers of the urinary tract are subtle in the early stages and do not cause symptoms in the early stages, so it is important to reach out to a doctor if you have worrying changes with urination symptoms. While every cancer is different some of the more common symptoms include:

Fatigue

There are many treatment options for urinary tract cancers, thanks to research and technology. Treatments for urinary tract cancers will often involve a mix of surgery as well as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy. Depending on the location and stage of the cancer your individual treatment may vary, but when it comes to radiation treatment, there are several different possibilities.

Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) is a powerful radiation treatment that uses energy, such as X-rays or protons, to kill cancer cells. It is designed to keep the radiation focused on the cancer cells and minimize the amount of radiation sent anywhere else.

Volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) uses a machine that rotates around your body and sends out multiple levels of radiation at the cancer cells. This is one type of IMRT.

Image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) uses images taken before and after treatment to help guide the process. This system may make it possible to use higher doses of radiation, if necessary. This could lead to a shorter course of radiation overall.

Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) is a treatment that involves using beams of energy to target cancerous tumors. It also uses 3D or 4D imaging to keep the radiation contained as much as possible.

Although urinary tract cancer treatments including radiation may come with side effects, taking good care of yourself before and after treatments can help minimize discomfort. In general, it is beneficial to drink plenty of fluids throughout your treatment and to cut down on fizzy drinks.

Side effect: Nausea and vomiting
What you can do: Eat small meals and snack throughout the day, focusing on room temperature or cold foods. Avoid drinking liquids with your meals.

Side effect: Irritated skin at the site of radiation
What you can do: Avoid harsh soaps, colognes, and cosmetics. Keep your skin moist by applying a good quality moisturizer, but be sure to confirm with your doctor that you’re using products that won’t cause further irritation.

Side effect: Burning or pain during urination
What you can do: Talk to your doctor about possible medications or urine alkalizing agents, but also drink plenty of water.

Side effect: Diarrhea
What you can do: Sip room temperature fluids throughout the day and avoid foods that are spicy, fatty, or high in insoluble fibers. Ask for information about a low-residue diet.