Bladder cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the tissues of the bladder, a hollow organ in the lower abdomen that stores urine. Bladder cancer is becoming increasingly prevalent, especially among men, and is often linked to risk factors such as smoking, exposure to industrial chemicals, and certain infections.
Bladder cancer can develop due to several factors. In India, the following are some of the common causes and risk factors:
The most significant risk factor, as harmful chemicals in tobacco can damage the bladder lining.
Long-term exposure to industrial chemicals, such as those used in the textile, dye, rubber, leather, and paint industries, increases the risk.
Repeated bladder infections or inflammation can contribute to bladder cancer.
A parasitic infection found in some regions of India, especially in rural areas, can increase the risk of bladder cancer.
It is more common in older adults, especially men.
A family history of bladder cancer may increase the likelihood of developing it.
The symptoms of bladder cancer may be subtle in the early stages but become more noticeable as the disease progresses. Some common symptoms include:
Bladder cancer is typically diagnosed through a combination of the following tests:
The treatment of bladder cancer depends on the stage of the disease, the patient’s overall health, and other factors. Common treatment options in India include:
Used to kill cancer cells, either before surgery (neoadjuvant therapy) or after surgery to prevent recurrence.,
Intravesical chemotherapy involves placing the drug directly into the bladder to target cancerous cells.
Uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells, especially if surgery is not an option.
Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) therapy, a form of immunotherapy, is widely used in India for treating bladder cancer. It involves placing a weakened bacterium directly into the bladder to activate the immune system to attack cancer cells.
Newer immunotherapy drugs can help the body’s immune system better identify and attack bladder cancer cells.
Targets specific molecules involved in cancer growth, though it’s less commonly used for bladder cancer than for other cancers.
Regular monitoring is necessary post-treatment to detect any recurrence. This includes periodic cystoscopies, urine tests, and imaging as recommended by the oncologist.
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