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Urology insights with Dr Akhbar pt 5

  Renal Cysts: What You Should Know If you’ve been told you have a “renal cyst” after a scan, you’re not alone — and you probably have questions. As a Urologist, I see this all the time. The good news? Most renal cysts are harmless. But there are times when they need closer attention. Here’s what you really need to know. What Are Renal Cysts? Renal cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form in or on the kidneys. Most are simple and benign (non-cancerous), especially as people get older. In fact, by the time you’re over 50, there’s a good chance you’ll have at least one, whether you know it or not. There are two main types: Simple renal cysts: Very common, usually harmless, thin-walled, and filled with clear fluid. Complex cysts: May have thicker walls, calcifications, or internal structures. These need more follow-up. Then there’s Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) — a genetic condition with many cysts that can damage kidney function. That’s a different story altogeth...
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Urology insights with Dr Akhbar pt 4

  Bladder Cancer: What You Need to Know from a Urologist Bladder cancer isn’t as widely talked about as prostate or breast cancer, but it’s one of the most common cancers of the urinary system. As a Urologist, I see patients every week who are blindsided by a diagnosis they didn’t expect — often because they didn’t know the warning signs or risks. This article breaks down the basics: what bladder cancer is, how to spot it, how we treat it, and most importantly, how you can protect yourself. What Is Bladder Cancer? Bladder cancer starts in the cells lining the inside of the bladder — the organ that stores urine. Most cases are urothelial carcinoma (formerly called transitional cell carcinoma), which begins in the bladder lining. It can range from superficial (non-invasive) to muscle-invasive, which is more serious. Who’s at Risk? Several factors raise your risk of developing bladder cancer: Smoking: The #1 risk factor. Tobacco chemicals pass into the urine and...
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