A 'painless' killer hidden in everyday life

Occasional urinary hesitancy, intermittent painless hematuria or vague fatigue are often brushed off as minor annoyances. However, these symptoms – especially painless blood in the urine – can be warning signs of urologic cancers, yet are frequently mistaken for benign conditions such as infections or the effects of aging.

Thanks to an innovative biopsy‑free diagnostic technology developed by Chinese doctors – using urine cell-free DNA (cfDNA) methylation and blood tumor‑cell screening – patients can now be tested with over 90% sensitivity and specificity in specific assays, which spares them unnecessary pain and enables earlier intervention. Robot‑assisted minimally invasive surgery further reduces trauma and speeds recovery.

Yet, advanced technology only helps those who seek it. Changing mindsets is equally critical. Doctors urge men to quit smoking, avoid high‑fat diets, get enough sleep and undergo regular physical exams. As one patient put it, "There is nothing better than making a full recovery. Health is what we all want."

From non‑invasive diagnostics to faster, minimally invasive surgeries, Chinese doctors are giving more men a greater chance of recovery. The message is clear, "Don't tough it out – check it out."

 

Executive Producer: Zhang Jingwen

Producer: Yang Sha

Directors: Lu Wei, Guo Yunpeng

Planning: Chen Qingxuan, Wang Yuxin

Editor: Wang Xueying

Videographers: Bai Nan, Wang Zihao, Chai Shouyu

Cover Image Designers: Huang Ruiqi, Yan Tianhe