WHAT IS BLADDER CANCER? 

Bladder cancer is one of the common cancers. It occurs in men more frequently than it does in women though it can happen at any age.

There are three types of bladder cancers that begin in cells in the lining of the bladder: 

1. Transitional Cell Carcinoma

2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma

3. Adenocarcinoma

Some of the possible causes of bladder cancer are as follows : 

• using tobacco, especially in the form of cigarettes

• having a family history of cancer or history of bladder infections

• certain changes in the genes 

• exposure to paints, dyes, metals, or petroleum products 

•  past treatment with radiation therapy to the pelvis or with certain anticancer drugs

• drinking water with high levels of arsenic and chlorine

• consistent use of  urinary catheters 

• oldr age  

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF BLADDER CANCER?

• Blood in the urine (slightly rusty to bright red in color)

• Frequent urination

• Pain during urination

• Lower back pain

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT 

Diagnosis: The following tests and procedures may be used:

1. Physical examination and history

2. Urinalysis 

3. Urine Cytology 

4. Cystoscopy 

5. Intravenous Pyelogram (IVP): Combo of x-rays of the kidneys, ureters,etc

6. Biopsy 

Treatment :Bladder cancer treatment may include:

• Surgery, to remove cancerous tissue ( TURBT, Cystectomy, etc)

• Chemotherapy to treat tumors confined to the lining of the bladder 

• Reconstruction, to create a new way for urine to exit the body after bladder removal

• Radiation therapy, to destroy cancer cells,often as a primary treatment

• Immunotherapy, to trigger the body's immune system to fight cancer cells 

• Trimodality therapy - the treatment approach includes TURBT, chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

The chances of recovery from bladder cancer depend on the stage and type of bladder cancer, patient’s age and general health, size and number of tumours or if the tumour has recurred (come back) after treatment

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Prevention: Although there's no guaranteed way to prevent bladder cancer, some steps to lower the risk are: 

• Don't smoke. 

• Take caution around chemicals 

• Eat healthy

Bladder cancer may recur. People with bladder cancer need follow-up testing for years after successful treatment.