Where Does Urinary Bladder Cancer Begin?
The kidneys produce urine, which is temporarily stored in the bladder. When enough urine accumulates, the bladder contracts its muscles to expel it.
Urine contains waste substances that need to be removed from the body. The innermost lining of the bladder (Mucosa) prevents these harmful substances from re-entering the body.
Bladder cancer initially starts in this inner lining and gradually spreads into the bladder’s muscle layers.
What Are the Causes of Bladder Cancer?
The exact causes of bladder cancer are not specifically known. However, smoking, radiation, exposure to certain chemicals, and chronic bladder inflammation are the main factors contributing to the development of this cancer. Additionally, an increasing tendency to develop this cancer is observed with advancing age.
What Are the Symptoms of This Disease?
The main symptom is blood in urine. During this time, there is usually no pain or fever. Sometimes, there is a significant amount of fresh bleeding, and clotted blood may discharge in chunks. Occasionally, reddish, jelly-like or fleshy substances are passed. Additionally, frequent urination, urinary tract infections, pain in the abdomen and lower back, weakness, and weight loss are observed at various stages of the disease.
How Is This Disease Diagnosed?
The diagnosis process is simple and hassle-free. In most cases, ultrasound (Ultrasonogram) of the urinary system is sufficient. In some cases, additional tests such as CT scan, Flexible Cystoscopy and Urine Cytology may be required.
What Are the Available Treatment Options?
The primary treatment for bladder cancer is surgery to remove the tumor. If cancer spreads, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiotherapy may be needed.
How Appropriate Treatment Method Is Determined for A Particular Patient?
The choice of treatment depends mainly on the types of cancer. Broadly, bladder cancer is classified into two types:
Non-Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer – The cancer is confined to the inner lining of the bladder.
Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer – The cancer has spread into the bladder’s muscle layers.
The treatment approach differs entirely between these two types. Hence, during the first surgery, it is crucial to determine whether the cancer has invaded the muscle or not. For that purpose, muscle coats be taken from the base of the tumor and to be sent for histopathological examination separately.
Important Points Need To Know For The Patients and Their Family Members
- More than 60% of bladder cancers recur.
- Close monitoring and lifelong follow up is essential.
- Patients need periodic ultrasound and flexible cystoscopic examination.
- If disease progresses, further treatment like surgical removal of bladder, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiotherapy may be required.
- With all these efforts, survival rate is around 77%.
- This is one of the most expensive cancer to treat.
Recommended Lifestyle Modifications to Reduce the Risk of Bladder Cancer?
- Regular Health Checkups– As more than 60% of bladder cancer recurs, regular follow ups are crucial for early detection.
- Smoking must be stopped.
- Consuming a balanced and nutritious diet, such as:
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- Various types of fresh fruits and vegetables
- Nuts and legumes
- Low-fat dairy products
- Fish from the sea and rivers
- High-fiber foods, etc.
- Drinking plenty of fluids and preventing frequent urinary tract infections.
- Avoiding work in industries involving dyes, chemicals, leather, textiles, rubber, etc.
- Avoiding exposure to X-rays and similar types of radiation.
- Engaging in regular and moderate exercise and trying to live a stress-free life.
Author:
Prof. Brig. Gen. Dr. SM Shameem Waheed
Senior Consultant