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BLADDER CANCER

What is bladder cancer?

Bladder cancer refers to a form of cancer that initiates in the bladder cells, the organ responsible for urine storage. It stands as one of the prevalent cancer types, predominantly diagnosed among older adults. While bladder cancer can develop at any age, it is more frequently observed in individuals aged 55 and above. Familiarity with the symptoms, causes, and available treatment approaches for bladder cancer is vital in facilitating early detection and successful management.


What are the symptoms of bladder cancer?

The symptoms of bladder cancer can vary, but the primary indicator is the presence of blood in the urine, known as haematuria. Haematuria may cause urine to appear pink, red, or even brown. Additional indications can encompass frequent urination, discomfort or a burning feeling while urinating, and a persistent urge to urinate with limited urine output. In advanced stages, individuals might encounter pelvic pain, back pain, unintentional weight loss, and bone pain if cancer has metastasised to other areas of the body.

While the precise cause of bladder cancer may not always be evident, specific risk factors have been recognised. The most prominent risk factor is smoking, which exposes the bladder to detrimental chemicals present in tobacco. Furthermore, exposure to particular industrial chemicals used in industries like dyeing, rubber production, and leatherworking can heighten the risk. Persistent inflammation or recurrent infections of the bladder, certain medications, and a familial predisposition to bladder cancer can also contribute to the occurrence of the condition.


Treatment of bladder cancer

The approach to treating bladder cancer depends on several factors, like the stage and grade of the tumour and the general health status of the individual. Treatment approaches encompass a range of options, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. In instances where the cancer is confined to the inner lining of the bladder, a procedure known as transurethral resection may be conducted to eliminate the tumour. For more advanced cases, partial or complete removal of the bladder (cystectomy) may be necessary. In some instances, a urinary diversion procedure is performed to create a new way for urine to exit the body.

Furthermore, radiation therapy can be employed to eliminate cancer cells or shrink tumour size, while chemotherapy endeavours to eradicate cancer cells throughout the body. Immunotherapy medications aid in stimulating the body's immune system to recognise and eliminate cancer cells, while targeted therapy drugs specifically focus on targeting cancer cells while sparing healthy cells from harm.

 

FAQ


Can bladder cancer be prevented?

While it may not be possible to prevent bladder cancer, there are measures you can adopt to mitigate your risk. Ceasing smoking, minimising exposure to harmful chemicals, and adhering to a healthy lifestyle can contribute to reducing the likelihood of developing bladder cancer.



Are there different types of bladder cancer?

Yes, there are several types of bladder cancer, including transitional cell carcinoma (the most common type), squamous cell carcinoma, and adenocarcinoma. The treatment and outlook can differ depending on the specific type of bladder cancer.



How is bladder cancer diagnosed?

The diagnosis of bladder cancer typically entails a comprehensive assessment of medical history, physical examination, urine tests, imaging tests (such as CT scan or ultrasound), and a biopsy of bladder tissue to undergo further analysis.

 

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