urinary Bladder cancer
Urinary Bladder Cancer
Urinary bladder cancer, a significant health concern globally, affects the tissues of the bladder, which is responsible for storing urine. It often begins in the cells lining the inside of the bladder and can develop into cancer over time. Early detection through screening tests and regular medical check-ups can greatly improve outcomes, as symptoms may not manifest until the disease is advanced. Factors such as avoiding smoking, reducing exposure to certain chemicals, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle play crucial roles in prevention.
Treatment options vary depending on the stage of cancer but may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. Increased awareness, coupled with regular screenings and healthy lifestyle choices, is paramount in combating this disease.
Risk Factors
- Smoking: The most significant risk factor, greatly increasing the likelihood of developing bladder cancer.
- Exposure to certain chemicals: Industrial chemicals used in dye, rubber, leather, and paint industries can increase risk.
- Age: The risk increases with age, especially after 55.
- Chronic bladder inflammation: Conditions such as urinary infections or long-term catheter use.
- Personal or family history of bladder cancer.
- Gender: Men are at a higher risk than women.
Symptoms
- Blood in the urine (hematuria), which may cause the urine to appear bright red or cola-colored
- Frequent urination
- Painful urination
- Back pain
- Pelvic pain
Diagnosis
- Screening tests: Urine tests and cystoscopy (a procedure to examine the inside of the bladder) are commonly used for detection.
- Diagnostic tests: Imaging tests like CT urogram, MRI, and ultrasound, as well as biopsy, may be performed to determine the extent and stage of the cancer.
Treatment
- Surgery: Options include transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) for early-stage cancer and cystectomy (partial or radical removal of the bladder) for more advanced stages.
- Intravesical therapy: Direct administration of chemotherapy or immunotherapy into the bladder.
- Chemotherapy: Systemic chemotherapy to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing.
- Radiation therapy: High-energy beams are used to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing.
- Immunotherapy: Drugs that help the immune system fight cancer.
Bladder cancer involves abnormal cell growth in the bladder lining, often causing blood in urine and frequent urination. Dr. Ajeet Tiwari, one of the best bladder cancer doctors in Dehradun, specializes in diagnosing and treating bladder cancer with advanced methods.
