Understanding Bladder Cancer, Risk Factors, and Treatment Options

Bladder cancer is a condition that affects thousands of people worldwide. It occurs when abnormal cells in the bladder start to grow uncontrollably, leading to the formation of tumours. This blog will help you better understand bladder cancer, its risk factors, symptoms, and available treatment options. This will empower you with valuable knowledge to identify symptoms and seek early treatment for best results. .

What is Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer typically begins in the cells that line the inside of the bladder, known as urothelial cells. However, it can also originate in other types of cells, such as squamous cells or glandular cells. The disease can be categorized into non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (confined to the inner lining of the bladder) and muscle-invasive bladder cancer (spreading to the muscular wall of the bladder or beyond).

What are the Risk Factors for Bladder Cancer

While the exact cause of bladder cancer remains unknown, certain risk factors have been identified. Smoking, exposure to cancer causing chemicals, dyes etc., chronic bladder inflammation and family history of bladder cancer are some of the risk factors for bladder cancer. It is also more common in people over 55 and among men than women

What are the Symptoms of Bladder Cancer

Symptoms of bladder cancer can vary, but the most common ones include:

Blood in the Urine (Haematuria)

This is the most prevalent symptom of bladder cancer. Blood in the urine may be visible making it pink, red or brown or may be only detectable under a microscope.

Urinary Changes

These include frequent urination, urgency, pain or discomfort during urination, and the urge to urinate but producing only small amounts of urine.

Pelvic Pain

Pain in the pelvic area, lower back, or abdominal region may occur, particularly in advanced stages. Fatigue, weight loss and swollen ankles and feet are also symptoms of bladder cancer.

While these symptoms may indicate bladder cancer, they may also be caused by other conditions. It is vital that you consult a doctor if you have any of these or other problems. There are many tests to diagnose bladder cancer. You will need a urine analysis, blood tests, biopsy and imaging tests such as ultrasound, MRI or CT scan.

Cystoscopy is another test that is used to diagnose bladder cancer. This involves inserting a thin flexible tube with a camera into the bladder through the urethra. This will help visualize the bladder lining and detect any abnormalities

What are the Treatment Options for Bladder Cancer:

If you have been diagnosed with bladder cancer, don’t worry. There are multiple treatment options available. Treatment will depend on the stage and grade of the cancer, and your overall health. Treatment options include:

Surgery

Surgery may be done to remove the tumour alone (transurethral resection of bladder tumour, TURBT) or, in more advanced cases, to remove the entire bladder (radical cystectomy). If needed, a urinary diversion may be done to reroute urine.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy drugs may be used to stimulate the immune system to target and destroy cancer cells in the bladder.

Radiation Therapy

High-energy beams are directed at the bladder to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy is often used in combination with surgery or as a palliative treatment to relieve symptoms in advanced cases.

Chemotherapy

Drugs are used to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. Chemotherapy may be administered directly into the bladder or through the bloodstream.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted drugs designed to specifically target cancer cells may be used to kill cancer cells without harming other cells.

So it is clear that bladder cancer is a complex condition. By identifying the risk factors, recognizing the symptoms, and taking prompt action, you can increase your chances of early detection and successful treatment. At Zanish Cancer Hospital, we work closely with our patients to develop a personalized treatment plan based on the specific characteristics of the cancer. With advanced treatment options, the outlook for bladder cancer patients has vastly improved. Consult our experts for the latest treatment for bladder cancer.