Bladder Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, And Treatment

Bladder cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the tissues of the bladder, which is a hollow organ located in the pelvis. It is the fourth most common cancer in men and the tenth most common cancer in women. According to the American Cancer Society, it is estimated that in 2021, there will be about 83,730 new cases of bladder cancer and about 17,200 deaths from the disease in the United States.

What Causes Bladder Cancer?

Bladder cancer usually starts in the urothelial cells that line the inside of the bladder. These cells are responsible for holding urine inside the bladder. The exact cause of bladder cancer is unknown, but there are several risk factors that can increase a person’s chance of developing the disease.

• Smoking: Cigarette smokers are at a higher risk of developing bladder cancer compared to non-smokers. In fact, smoking accounts for about half of all bladder cancer cases.
• Exposure to chemicals: Certain chemicals found in industries such as rubber, leather, textiles, and paint have been linked to an increased risk of bladder cancer.
• Aging: As we age, our risk for bladder cancer increases. The average age at which bladder cancer is diagnosed is 73 years old.
• Gender: Men are much more likely to develop bladder cancer than women.
• Previous cancer treatment: People who have undergone radiation therapy for other types of cancer are at a higher risk of developing bladder cancer.

What are the Symptoms of Bladder Cancer?

The most common symptom of bladder cancer is blood in the urine, also known as hematuria. Other symptoms may include:

• Frequent or urgent need to urinate.
• Painful or burning sensation during urination.
• Pelvic pain.
• Back pain.
• Unexplained weight loss.

How is Bladder Cancer Diagnosed?

If you experience any of the above symptoms, it is important to see a doctor for further evaluation. Your doctor may perform a series of tests to determine if you have bladder cancer. These tests may include:

• Urine tests to look for blood and other abnormal cells.
• Cystoscopy: A procedure where a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the bladder to view the inside of the organ.
• Imaging tests such as CT scan, MRI, or ultrasound to view the bladder and surrounding organs.
• Biopsy: A small sample of tissue is taken from the bladder and examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancer cells.

What are the Treatment Options for Bladder Cancer?

The treatment for bladder cancer depends on the stage of the disease and other factors such as overall health and age. The most common treatment options include:

• Surgery: The tumor and some surrounding tissues are removed during a surgery called transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT).
• Chemotherapy: Medications are used to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing and spreading.
• Immunotherapy: Drugs are used to boost the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells.
• Radiation therapy: High-energy rays are used to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors.
• Bladder removal: In some cases, the entire bladder may need to be removed, and a new way of collecting and storing urine must be created.

Conclusion

Bladder cancer is a common type of cancer that affects the urinary system. It is important to be aware of the risk factors and symptoms of this disease and seek medical attention if necessary. Early detection and treatment can greatly improve the chances of successful outcomes.