Key Takeaways:
- Smoking, exposure to certain chemicals, and family history can all increase your risk for bladder cancer.
- Symptoms such as blood in urine, painful urination, and frequent urination can indicate bladder cancer.
- Treatment for bladder cancer typically involves surgery, chemotherapy, and immunotherapies.
Introduction
Cancer is a broad topic that impacts millions of people across the United States every year. One type of cancer is bladder cancer. Bladder cancer is the sixth most common form of cancer in the United States and close to 80,000 people are diagnosed each year. In this article, we will discuss bladder cancer and explore the potential causes and offer tips for keeping your health in check.
Risk Factors Smoking
Smoking is the most prevalent risk factor associated with bladder cancer. Every time you smoke, the toxins and chemicals contained in a cigarette enter the body and cause genetic damage. Smoking is responsible for nearly half of all bladder cancers.
Exposure to Chemicals
Being exposed to certain chemicals can also make you more susceptible to getting bladder cancer. The use and misuse of hazardous chemicals in the workplace have been linked to higher rates of bladder cancer. A recent study identified twenty different chemicals that could put you at greater risk for bladder cancer development.
Family History
Family history is also a risk factor. If you have a family member who has been diagnosed with bladder cancer, then you may have an increased risk for the disease.
Symptoms
If you are experiencing the following symptoms, it is important to consult your doctor:
Blood in Urine
If you notice any blood in your urine, it could be a sign of bladder cancer. Red or dark colored urine is a common symptom along with any changes in the color or consistency.
Painful Urination
Pain or burning with urination can also be a sign of bladder cancer.
Frequent Urination
Having to urinate more frequently than usual can also point to bladder cancer. If you find yourself having to go to the bathroom multiple times a day or having trouble controlling your bladder, it is important to consult your doctor.
Diagnosis Physical Exam
Your doctor will begin the diagnostic process with a physical exam. The doctor will check your body for any signs of a tumor or growth in the bladder.
Urine Tests
Your doctor will also likely perform a urinalysis. This will help diagnose a bladder infection and any pre-existing conditions that may make you more susceptible to bladder cancer.
Imaging Tests
In some cases, your doctor may recommend imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI. Depending on the results of your initial tests, your doctor may want a more detailed look at your organ and tissue structures.
Treatment Surgery
The most common treatment for bladder cancer is surgery. Depending on how advanced the cancer is, your doctor may recommend surgery to either remove the tumor/growth or remove a portion of the bladder.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy may also be used in treating more advanced cases of bladder cancer. This method of treatment helps the body fight off any cancerous cells.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapies are a newer form of treatment and can be used in conjunction with traditional treatments such as surgery and chemotherapy. Immunotherapies use the body’s own defenses to target cancer by boosting the immune system.
Conclusion
Bladder cancer is the sixth most prevalent form of cancer in the United States and it can begin with little to no warning. We have discussed the potential risks associated with bladder cancer and a few ways to determine if you may have bladder cancer. The most common treatments are surgery, chemotherapy, and immunotherapies. It is important to stay educated on your health and to consult your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
Advanced Urology Institute and their team of experienced urologists provide comprehensive urology care in South and Central Florida. They are the top-rated urology practice in the state and strive to provide compassionate and quality care coupled with the latest advancements in urological technology. So, if you believe you may have bladder cancer or have questions, Advanced Urology Institute can help.
REFERENCES:
- “Risk Factors and Cancer | CDC.” https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/risk_factors.htm.
- Tests and Procedures Used to Diagnose Cancer – NCI.” 17 Jan. 2023, https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/diagnosis-staging/diagnosis.
- “Bladder Cancer Signs and Symptoms.” 30 Jan. 2019, https://www.cancer.org/cancer/bladder-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/signs-and-symptoms.html.
- “Bladder Cancer: Types of Treatment.” https://www.cancer.net/cancer-types/bladder-cancer/types-treatment.
