Bladder Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Bladder Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Facebook Twitter LinkedIn WhatsApp Reddit Table of Contents Bladder cancer affects countless lives worldwide, making it a formidable health challenge with its widespread occurrence. Recent data reveals its alarming prevalence, consistently ranking among the top 10 most frequently diagnosed cancers globally, with over 550,000 new cases reported annually. While its impact spans across all age groups, it disproportionately affects older adults, especially those aged 55 and above.  With a multitude of risk factors, such as smoking, exposure to certain chemicals, and chronic bladder inflammation, bladder cancer underscores the importance of heightened awareness and proactive steps toward prevention and early detection. What is bladder cancer? Cancer of the bladder occurs when abnormal cells in the bladder start to grow uncontrollably, eventually creating tumors. These can be benign or malignant. Malignant tumors can invade nearby tissues, spreading to other parts of the body. Did you know benign tumors are not as dangerous as malignant or cancerous tumors and can be treated easily? Consult an expert to know more. Get Second Opinion What are the symptoms of bladder cancer? Bladder cancer symptoms can vary depending on the stage and type of cancer, but common signs and symptoms include: Hematuria (blood in urine) Painful or Frequent Urination Low Back Pain Unexplained Weight Loss Loss of appetite Swollen Feet Extreme Weakness and Fatigue What are the causes or risk factors of bladder cancer? Several factors expose one to the risk of developing bladder cancer: Mutation of Epithelial Cells: Bladder cancer arises from the mutation of the epithelial cells lining the bladder. Tobacco Smoking: Smoking is a great risk factor for bladder cancer, thereby increasing the chances of it arising . Chemical Exposure: People in occupations involving chemical exposure, for example, workers in the dye industry, have the highest risk. Exposure to Radiation: Previous radiation treatment for various medical conditions increases the chances of contracting bladder cancer. Chronic Bladder Infections: Chronic bladder infections result in persistent inflammation of the bladder; therefore, this may lead to the development of bladder cancer. Signs of an inflamed bladder may include frequent urination, urgency, and discomfort or pain during urination. Don’t ignore the signs, consult an expert today. Get Second Opinion How is bladder cancer diagnosed? The diagnosis of bladder cancer usually includes a series of investigations to confirm the abnormal cells of the bladder and the extent of the disease. Given below is the process: Medical History and Physical Examination: It begins with a complete review of the patient’s medical history, including risk factors such as smoking, exposure to certain chemicals, and previous radiation therapy. A physical examination may also be conducted to check for any signs or symptoms of bladder cancer, such as blood in the urine(hematuria) or pelvic pain. Urinalysis: A urine sample is collected and analyzed for the presence of blood, abnormal cells, or other signs of bladder cancer.  Imaging Tests: Several imaging tests can be employed to obtain pictures of the bladder and nearby organs. These may include an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI. All these imaging tests create detailed pictures of the bladder and surrounding tissues, which help to better understand the size of the tumor and invasion. Cystoscopy: This is an advanced procedure wherein a thin, flexible tube, attached to a camera, is inserted into the bladder through the urethra. A urologist can directly see the inside lining of the bladder and identify abnormal growth or suspicious areas. Small tissue samples, or biopsies, may be taken during a cystoscopy to look at under a microscope. Biopsy and Pathology: If anything unusual is detected during cystoscopy, small tissue samples (biopsies) are collected from the bladder and sent for examination by a pathologist. Biopsy results from the sample help in determining the presence or absence of cancer, its type, grade, and stage—all of which are very important in its treatment.  Accurate diagnosis and staging are really important to develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to the individual patient’s condition, which may include surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiation therapy. Further and regular follow-up evaluations are also important for observing the signs of recurrence or progression. What are the treatment options available for bladder cancer? Treatment for bladder cancer depends on several factors, which include the type and stage of the cancer, and general health status and preferences. Below are the different treatments generally used for bladder cancer: Surgery: In early-stage bladder cancer, Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor, or TURBT, is performed. A cystoscope is inserted into the bladder via the urethra, and the tumor is removed using a special tool. Partial or Radical Cystectomy may be necessary for the more advanced stages. Radiation Therapy: It utilizes high-energy X-rays to target and destroy cancer cells in the bladder. External Beam Radiation involves directing radiation beams from outside the body onto the bladder area, while Brachytherapy involves placing radioactive sources directly into the bladder. Both techniques aim to shrink tumors, relieve symptoms, and potentially cure or control the progression of bladder cancer. Radiation therapy may be used alone or in combination with other treatments like surgery or chemotherapy, depending on the stage and extent of the cancer. Chemotherapy: Systemic chemotherapy involves administering anti-cancer drugs either intravenously or orally, allowing them to circulate throughout the body. This treatment is particularly beneficial for advanced or metastatic bladder cancer, where cancer cells have spread beyond the bladder. Chemotherapy drugs target rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells, and may be used to shrink tumors, alleviate symptoms, and improve overall survival. Systemic chemotherapy may be used as a primary treatment or in combination with other therapies, such as surgery or radiation. Targeted Therapy: This is a precise approach that aims to inhibit specific molecular pathways crucial for cancer cell survival and proliferation. Targeted therapy drugs selectively attack cancer cells while sparing normal tissues. By targeting key genetic mutations or abnormal proteins driving tumor growth, these medications offer a tailored treatment option for bladder cancer patients, potentially improving outcomes and quality of life.  Immunotherapy: In bladder

What is colorectal cancer

What is colorectal cancer? One of the leading cancer-related fatalities is due to colorectal cancer, which ranks second on the list of cancer-causing deaths worldwide. Over 1.9 million new cases and 930,000 deaths were recorded in 2020 due to colorectal cancer. The number of cases being reported is rapidly increasing. But what is colorectal cancer? What are the causes? Why is it so common? Let’s find out. What is colorectal cancer? Colorectal cancer, also called bowel cancer, is a type of cancer that originates in the colon or rectum, which are parts of the digestive system. The colon, known as the large intestine, is the last part of the digestive tract, while the rectum is a lower part of the colon that connects to the anus. Colorectal cancer usually starts as small growths called polyps on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. With time, some of these polyps may turn into cancer, especially if they are not found and removed early. Recent posts Cervical Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, Screening, Prevention and Treatment Cervical Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, Screening, Prevention and Treatment Cervical Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, Screening, Prevention and Treatment Cervical cancer is a significant health concern worldwide, affecting millions of women each year. … Hodgkin Lymphoma: Symptoms, Causes, Risk Factors and Prevention Hodgkin Lymphoma: Symptoms, Causes, Risk Factors and Prevention Hodgkin Lymphoma: Symptoms, Causes, Risk Factors and Prevention Hodgkin lymphoma, a cancer affecting the lymphatic system, is a condition that deeply impacts … 1 2 3 … 5 Next » What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer? Colorectal cancer symptoms can be subtle, often resembling common digestive issues. However, recognizing these signs is crucial for early detection and treatment. Colorectal cancer symptoms are: Changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea, constipation or narrowing of the stool Rectal bleeding, either bright red or dark and tar-like Abdominal discomfort, characterized by cramps, pain or bloating Unexplained weight loss Fatigue and weakness, even with adequate rest Iron deficiency anemia due to chronic bleeding leads to fatigue, weakness and paleness Did you know colorectal cancer is often called the “silent killer” because it can develop without symptoms in its early stages? Don’t wait; schedule your screening with an expert today. What are the causes and risk factors for colorectal cancer? Colorectal cancer, being a multi-etiological disease with complex etiology, follows from a mixture of genetic predispositions and environmental factors. While the exact cause remains unknown, a multifactorial etiology has been established to predispose to colorectal cancer. Genetic and environmental influence: Genetic Factors: Genetic alterations and inherited syndromes play a very crucial role in the etiology of colorectal cancer. About 10% of cases result from inherited genetic syndromes, such as Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis, which cause colorectal cancer susceptibility. Environmental Factors: Environmental exposures and lifestyle choices also affect the incidence of colorectal cancer. These risk factors include diet, physical activity, tobacco use and alcohol consumption, which may contribute to the development of the disease. Common Risk Factors: Age: Colorectal cancer risk increases as an individual ages and a majority of the cases are diagnosed in individuals over 50 years old. However, recent trends indicate that there is an increase in incidence rates among younger age groups. Therefore, this presents an opportunity for heightened awareness and screening among all age groups. Family History: People with a family history of colorectal cancer or certain genetic syndromes have an increased risk of developing the disease. People whose first-degree relatives had colorectal cancer should undergo an earlier and more frequent rate of screening. Personal Medical History: A history of colon cancer or specific kinds of polyps places the individual at an increased risk of developing the disease. Secondly, inflammatory bowel diseases, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease and other medical histories linked to long-standing and active involvement of these diseases are associated with an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer. Lifestyle Choices: Modifiable lifestyle choices like poor diets, processed meats, low fruit and vegetable intake, a lack of physical activity, obesity, smoking and a higher intake of alcohol are risk factors associated with colorectal cancer. The best approach to controlling such risk factors by altering lifestyle habits is to embrace a healthy lifestyle characterized by regular physical activity and a balanced diet that is high in fiber and nutrients. Survival Rates and Prognosis Healthcare providers worldwide have made great strides in the treatment of colon cancer. Based on information from sources including national cancer institutes, more than 90 percent of individuals diagnosed with early-stage colorectal cancer survive five years following diagnosis. Survival rates can vary widely based on factors, but, overall, about 65 percent of all colorectal cancer patients can survive five years after diagnosis. Emergency Care and Seeking Help It’s very important to understand when emergency care should be sought by an individual undergoing colon cancer treatment. Severe side effects, such as high fever, persistent chills, abdominal pain or dehydration, may be an indication to seek an immediate visit to healthcare providers. Increased awareness and screening efforts have led to more cases of colon cancer being detected and treated prior to the appearance of symptoms and the progression of the disease. Recent advances in targeted treatments have benefited individuals with colon cancer and further enhanced their outcomes. Active discussions with healthcare providers regarding treatment options and continuous education about new therapies will further support good outcomes and quality of life for colon cancer victims. References: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14501-colorectal-colon  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/colon-cancer https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/colorectal/basic_info/what-is-colorectal https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/colon-rectal-cancer/about/ Dr. A. Venugopal HOD, Senior Consultant Medical Oncologist and Hemato Oncologist View Profile About Author Dr. A. Venugopal MD (General Medicine), DM (Medical Oncology), MRCP – SCE Medical Oncology (UK), ECMO (Switzerland). Dr A. Venugopal is One of the best medical oncologist and Hemato Oncologist in hyderabad, currently serving as the Head of the Department and Senior Medical Oncologist, Hemato Oncologist at Pi Health Cancer Hospital in Gachibowli, Hyderabad. He brings over 15 years of extensive experience in the field of Oncology. Book an Appointment