Bladder cancer occurs when abnormal cells form in your bladder's lining. The most common symptom is blood in urine, sometimes with frequent or painful urination. Smoking is a key cause, along with certain chemical exposures. Treatment options often include surgery, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy, depending on the cancer stage. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, especially quitting smoking, is important for prevention and management.

Bladder cancer

BCG Intravesical

Valrubicin

Pembrolizumab / Keytruda

Gemcitabine - Cisplatin

Gemcitabine intravesical

Bladder cancer guide (NCCN)

Bladder cancer basics (BCAN)

Bladder cancer overview (JAMA)

MedStar Health Profile

Dr. Kowalczyk's Publications

Prostate Cancer Podcast with Dr. Geo

Intro to Urologic Cancer Podcast with Dr. Kowalczyk

Washingtonian Top Doctor

Prostate cancer is a common cancer in men, affecting the walnut-sized prostate gland. Early stages often have no symptoms, though risk increases with age and family history. Treatment options vary, from active surveillance to surgery or radiation. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be beneficial.

Prostate cancer

It appears "Giving to MedStar Georgetown Urology" refers to making a philanthropic contribution, not a medical condition. This act describes supporting the vital patient care, innovative research, and medical education provided by the Urology department at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, helping advance treatments and improve patient outcomes for various urological health issues.

Giving to MedStar Georgetown Urology

Urology at MedStar Georgetown addresses a wide range of conditions affecting the urinary tract (kidneys, bladder, etc.) in both men and women, and the male reproductive system. Common concerns include kidney stones, infections, prostate issues, and incontinence, which can cause symptoms like pain or frequent urination. Our specialists provide comprehensive care, offering medical and surgical treatments to restore health and improve daily well-being.

Urology at MedStar Georgetown

Elevated PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) is a blood test often used for prostate cancer screening. A high PSA level doesn't always mean cancer; it can be due to other conditions like inflammation or benign enlargement. If PSA is high or a physical exam is concerning, a prostate biopsy might be recommended to check for cancer cells. A healthy lifestyle supports overall prostate health.

Elevated PSA / Prostate cancer screening / Prostate biopsy

Kidney cancer involves abnormal cell growth in your kidneys, often showing no early symptoms but later presenting with blood in urine or back pain. Key risk factors include smoking and obesity, while treatment typically involves surgery, alongside options like targeted therapy or immunotherapy. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can significantly help reduce your risk.

Kidney cancer

Keith Kowalczyk

Chevy Chase Location

Reservoir Road

Physician Executive Director and Chair, Department of Urology, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and MedStar Health

Surgery (Urology)

System Director and Chair, Robotic Surgery Service Line, MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and MedStar Health

Associate Professor of Urology

Cancer conditions affecting the bladder, the organ storing urine.

Conditions affecting your bladder, kidneys, and how you urinate.

Bladder and Urinary Issues

Diseases where body cells grow abnormally and can spread.

Cancer

Prostate problems that affect men's urination and health.

Prostate Conditions

Cancers that start in the prostate gland, a male reproductive organ.

Prostate Cancer

Conditions that don't fit into other main groups. A mixed collection of health issues.

Other

Kidney Cancer

Conditions affecting your kidneys and the tubes that carry urine.

Kidney & Ureter Conditions

Tests to find what's wrong or to check for health problems.

Screening and Diagnostic Procedures

Medical procedures are planned steps healthcare professionals take to diagnose, treat, or manage various health conditions. These can include diagnostic tests like imaging, therapeutic interventions, or surgical operations, all aimed at improving your health.

Procedures

Conditions affecting male organs, fertility, and sexual health.

Keith Kowalczyk, MD

Bladder cancer

Recommended Videos

Recommended Resources

Common Medication for Bladder cancer

Related Resources from Dr. Kowalczyk

Meet Dr. Kowalczyk

Locations

Find me online