[Value of screening for early detection of urological tumors (author's transl)].

Screening for early cancer detection is of value if (i) appropriate tests are available, (ii) the detected tumor can be treated, and (iii) the treatment improves the quality of life or the mortality rate of the patients. It is demonstrated whether carcinomas of the prostate and urinary tract, renal cell carcinoma, penile carcinoma and testicular tumors satisfy these conditions. Screening for early cancer detection may be indicated in prostatic and urinary tract carcinomas. The clinical examination should include the male genitalia. The indication for sonography of the kidneys to detect renal cell carcinomas is investigated at the moment. Instruction to perform self-examination of the testes should be given to all males older than 20 years.