Z Urology

Kidney Cancer

What is Kidney Cancer?

Kidney cancer, also known as renal cancer, is a type of cancer that begins in the kidneys. The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs located on either side of the spine, just below the rib cage. Their primary function is to filter waste products and excess fluids from the blood, which are then excreted as urine. The most common type of kidney cancer in adults is renal cell carcinoma (RCC), which accounts for about 85% of all kidney cancers.

Factors Contributing to Kidney Cancer

Several factors can increase the risk of developing kidney cancer:

Smoking: Increases the risk of RCC, with the risk decreasing over time after quitting.
Obesity: Excess body weight can lead to hormonal changes that increase cancer risk.
High Blood Pressure: Hypertension is a significant risk factor.
Family History: A strong family history of kidney cancer can increase risk.
Workplace Exposure: Exposure to certain chemicals, such as trichloroethylene, can increase risk.
Gender: Men are more likely to develop kidney cancer than women.
Race and Ethnicity: Higher rates are observed among American Indian, Alaska Native, and African American populations.
Advanced Kidney Disease: Long-term dialysis for kidney failure increases the risk.
Genetic Conditions: Inherited syndromes like von Hippel-Lindau disease can increase risk.

Treatments for Kidney Cancer

The treatment plan for kidney cancer depends on the stage and extent of the disease, as well as the patient's overall health:

Surgery: The primary treatment for localized kidney cancer. This can involve removing part of the kidney (partial nephrectomy) or the entire kidney (radical nephrectomy).
Targeted Therapy: Uses drugs to target specific molecules involved in cancer growth. Examples include sunitinib, pazopanib, and sorafenib.
Immunotherapy: Boosts the body's immune system to fight cancer. Drugs like nivolumab and pembrolizumab are commonly used.
Radiation Therapy: Uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells, typically used when surgery isn't an option.
Ablation Techniques: Methods like cryotherapy and radiofrequency ablation destroy cancer cells by freezing or heating them.
Embolization: Blocks the blood supply to the tumor to shrink it.

Potential Outcomes

The prognosis for kidney cancer varies based on the stage at diagnosis and other factors:

Early-Stage Cancer: When detected early, kidney cancer is often curable with surgery. The five-year survival rate for stage 1 kidney cancer is around 81%.
Advanced Cancer: For later stages, the prognosis is less favorable, but treatments can still significantly extend life. The five-year survival rate for stage 4 kidney cancer is about 8%.
Overall Survival: The overall five-year survival rate for kidney cancer is approximately 73%, but this can vary widely based on individual circumstances.

Early detection and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes. Regular check-ups and awareness of risk factors can help in early diagnosis and better management of kidney cancer.

Patient Feedback for Z Urology

Our patients are the reason we strive for exceptional urological care and treatment! Here’s what some of our South Florida patients are saying about their experience at our clinics.

I have recommended many people to this office and each one has thanked me. On a scale of 1 to 5 (5 being the best), Dr. Z and his staff are a 12.
– Alex S.
The wait was not long. I was greeted by a friendly nurse who took my sonogram of the kidneys and bladder. The doctor came in after a short time. Dr. Hollowell has a gentle voice and great bedside manner. He is very informative about my issues and I left feeling relieved and hopeful for future visits. The receptionists were also helpful and friendly. I recommend this office. Just wish it was closer to home.
– Allison T.
"I found Doctor Varghese through my insurance provider network and read reviews in Healthgrades. Dr. Varghese is terrific. She explains things so they are easy to understand. I feel she is on top of several medical problems I’m having. I had a cystoscopy and was offered nitric oxide (mild gas). It was perfect. I have had the procedure in the past but it was the most uncomfortable feeling I ever experienced. Not this time. Doctor Varghese is an excellent listener and remembers what I tell her from the previous visits.

Let me sum up my feelings about being under Dr. Varghese's care. I have new health insurance now so I can see doctors near my home, but instead I’ll continue to drive 75 miles each way to and from Pompano Beach to Stuart, FL [to see her].”
– Jeffery P.
“I've been coming here for cancer for 10 years and I've had nothing but good visits every time. Staff is friendly and the doctors and PA'S are great. Dr. Z takes the time to ask questions and explain everything. He is amazing.”

– Bill S.
“El Dr. Pedro Espino Grosso es un médico especialista en Urología es también especialista en entender, comprender y atender la preocupación de su paciente. Gracias por su profesionalismo como para todo el staff y las enfermeras por su amable y compasivo trato. Por favor no cambien!”
– Ana L.
I have new health insurance now so I can see doctors near my home, but instead, I’ll continue to drive 75 miles each way to and from Pompano Beach to Stuart, FL to visit Z Urology!
– Jeffery P.
“Dr. Mini Varghese of Z Urology is without a doubt the best Urologist in South Florida. She not only takes care of my father but now she's taking care of all my needs too. The team she has behind her at Z Urology is amazing, they go up and beyond their call of duty. A big shoutout to Z Urology in Pompano Beach, FL, thanks for keeping the pipes flowing...you gals are the Best!!!! Thanks Dr. Varghese.”
– Brent S.
“Dr. Brar was awesome! He was very thorough with everything to ensure we got to the bottom of my issue! I felt like he cared and listened. I will be going back. The office was busy and some people were waiting a while but I was seen fairly quickly, I did fill out all the paperwork ahead of time so not sure if that helped! The person who helped me at the front desk was great and helped me with all my questions.”
– Britney C.
Everyone seemed nice, friendly and welcoming. I was also impressed with the examination and the way the staff treated me. Dr. Mike took the time with me to listen and advise me as to what treatment plan might be needed.
– Jimmy Z.
Great specialist, hard to find a more personable and efficient medical office anywhere else. I was welcome from the moment I came in, everyone was very friendly and all my questions and needs were expertly attended to. Never been to a urologist so this was new to me, but I definitely felt comfortable and heard. It was a drive from neighboring Miami but well worth it. Highly recommend. Thanks, Dr. Z!
– Jose T.
Thank you Dr. Michael Zahalsky for the surgery, you changed my life completely. I'm so happy, now no more pain and I'm feeling better than ever, thanks again for the great staff in your office. Very professional. Felt like family.
– Frank C.
They are very friendly. My surgeon went through the same procedure and read my mind of all my concerns. He reassured me everything would be okay and life would go on.
– Jeremy C.
Three words: Kind, Caring and Compassionate! This office is the best of the best. The front desk employees are super friendly and the doctors are professional and spoke to me in a down-to-earth & making it easier for me to understand what was going on. I am able to make informed decisions with the material that was provided to me.
– A.D.Z.
I had a great first visit with Dr. Z and his staff. I was seen within a reasonable amount of time. Dr. Z was personable and, after hearing my history and doing a targeted physical exam, directed his staff to perform ultrasound and bladder testing which was done efficiently and with discretion. Dr. Z then came in and spent a good amount of time explaining a clinical treatment plan. I left feeling I was in the hands of a total professional office from the top down.
– Harvey A.
Z urology is the best and I have to say Dr. Zahalsky is extremely knowledgeable and such a humble and pleasant human being. I always feel welcome at Z Urology.
– Kimaro W.

In Network with Most Insurance Plans

Our clinic accepts most major insurance plans and offers flexible financing options to ensure you receive the care you need. Our team will work with you to maximize your benefits and minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Questions about insurance coverage?

Contact our office at (954) 714-8200. Additionally, we encourage you to call your insurance provider to confirm what your coverage includes.

Schedule an Appointment

Whether you're experiencing urinary symptoms, dealing with a chronic condition, or need specialized treatment, Z Urology is your go-to care team. We provide the highest quality of care and truly value patient communication so you feel comfortable and informed every step of the way.

Contact Z Urology today to book an appointment and take the first step towards better urological health!

Schedule an Appointment
or Call (954) 714-8200