[China Tech] Fudan University Boosts Survival in Male Urinary Cancers

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The Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center's combination of early screening, precision surgery, interdisciplinary treatment, and clinical research has resulted in a five-year survival rate for three prevalent male urinary system malignancies.

The center's five-year survival rate is comparable to that of top cancer centers worldwide, and clinical research breakthroughs have benefited patients.

The incidence of prostate, kidney, and bladder cancer cases in China is being detected early as medical capabilities improve.

"The delayed time of diagnosis and the high percentage of terminal patients are the major reasons why our survival rate is lower than that of developed countries," said Dr Ye Dingwei, a leading expert of the multidisciplinary team for urinary and male reproductive system cancer at the center.

[China Tech] Fudan University Boosts Survival in Male Urinary Cancers

Credit: Ti Gong

Caption: Dr Ye Dingwei

Ye's team worked with communities and grassroots medical facilities to conduct biomarker screening, promote early imaging diagnosis of kidney cancer, and establish a monitoring route for people at risk of bladder cancer to provide evidence and support for precise screening for better medical efficiency.

Under the scheme, Ye's team receives referrals for diagnosis and treatment from screened patients. Early-stage prostate cancer detection has doubled from five years ago to 68 percent today.

"For early-stage urinary system cancers, surgery is the top choice. But our purpose is not only to remove the cancer but also to ensure that patients live longer and better," Ye said.

Urological organs need extra care in clinical practice because surgery can induce urinary, sexual, or renal dysfunction.

Ye said he developed robot-assisted surgical skills to remove tumors completely and preserve organ function.

Currently, more than 97 percent of patients diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer can maintain proper urinary function, while over 90 percent of individuals with early-stage kidney cancer can preserve their kidneys. The proportion of bladder cancer patients retaining the organ has significantly risen. He stated that there was a significant improvement in both patients' survival and quality of life.

Ye's team has implemented individualized therapy for cancer patients in middle and terminal stages, achieving a remarkable 10-year survival record. It has actively engaged in clinical research focused on new therapies and drug development, facilitating the international expansion of China's innovative medical devices and pharmaceuticals.

The current five-year survival rates at the center are 82.6 percent for all prostate cancer patients, 77.1 percent for kidney cancer patients, and 74 percent for bladder cancer patients. All the figures significantly exceed the national level and align with the standards of the world's leading medical facilities.

"We will advance a more profound integration of precise surgery and comprehensive treatment. Our treatment plan is designed to benefit not only patients in China but also those around the globe," he said.