Bladder cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the bladder, the organ in your lower abdomen that holds urine. It typically starts in the cells that line the inside of the bladder and can occur at any age, but it’s most common in older adults.
Bladder cancer might not cause any symptoms at first but later stages might cause blood in urine, pain during urination, frequent urination, back pain, pelvic pain, or loss of appetite and weight.
Bladder cancer develops when cells in the bladder begin to grow abnormally. Rather than grow and divide in an orderly way, these cells develop mutations that cause them to grow out of control and not die. These abnormal cells form a tumor.
There are different types of bladder cancer: Urothelial carcinoma (also known as transitional cell carcinoma), Squamous cell carcinoma, and Adenocarcinoma. The most common type is Urothelial carcinoma.
Factors that may increase bladder cancer risk include: smoking, increasing age, being a white man, exposure to certain chemicals, previous cancer treatment, chronic bladder inflammation, and a family history of bladder cancer or genetic syndrome that increases the risk of bladder cancer.
Treatment options for bladder cancer range from surgery to remove the cancerous tissue, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immune therapy depending on the stage and grade of cancer. It’s crucial to talk with the healthcare team about treatment options, side effects, and what expected outcomes might be.
Causes of Bladder cancer
Bladder cancer usually starts in the innermost lining of the bladder, where it is called urothelial or transitional cell carcinoma. The exact cause is unknown, but a variety of risk factors are associated with the disease, including:
1. Smoking: Smokers get bladder cancer twice as often as people who don’t smoke. Smoke from cigarettes, cigars, and pipes is the main cause of bladder cancer.
2. Age: The chance of getting bladder cancer goes up as people grow older. People under the age of 40 rarely get this disease.
3. Gender: Men are about 3 to 4 times more likely to get bladder cancer during their lifetime than women.
4. Exposure to Chemicals: Certain industrial chemicals have been linked to bladder cancer. Chemicals called aromatic amines, which are used in the dye industry, can cause bladder cancer. Workers in industries that use certain organic chemicals also have a higher risk.
5. Chronic Bladder Infections and Irritations: Chronic or repeated urinary infections or inflammations (cystitis), such as those associated with long-term use of urinary catheters, may increase the risk of a squamous cell bladder cancer.
6. Chemotherapy and Radiation: Treatment with the chemotherapy drug cyclophosphamide or exposure to radiation can increase the risk of bladder cancer.
7. Personal or Family History of Cancer: Having bladder cancer once increases the chances of getting it again. Also, people with a family history of bladder cancer seem to be at a higher risk.
8. Certain Medications and Dietary Supplements: Use of the diabetes medication pioglitazone (Actos) for more than a year has been linked to an increased risk of bladder cancer. Also, the dietary supplement aristolochic acid (found in botanical products used for various conditions) can cause bladder cancer.
9. Diet: A diet that’s high in fried foods and red meat can increase your risk of bladder cancer.
10. Bladder Birth Defects: Rare birth defects of the bladder can lead to bladder cancer.
Please note, having one or more of these factors does not mean you will definitely get bladder cancer. Many people with these risks never get the disease, while others with no known risk factors do. If you are concerned about any of these risk factors, it’s best to speak with your healthcare provider who can provide more personalized information based on your individual health circumstances.
Risk Factors of Bladder cancer
Bladder cancer is a common type of cancer that begins in the cells of the bladder. Several risk factors can increase your likelihood of developing it:
1. Age: Over 90% of people with bladder cancer are older than 55, with most diagnosed around the age of 73.
2. Gender: Bladder cancer affects men more often than women. The male-female ratio is about 3:1.
3. Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor. Smokers are at least 3 times as likely to get bladder cancer as non-smokers.
4. Chemical Exposures: Certain jobs, including those involving dyes, rubber, leather, paints, textiles, and certain industries like printing, might increase the risk because of exposure to certain chemicals.
5. Chronic Bladder Inflammation: Repeated urinary infections or inflammations (like cystitis) or long-term use of a urinary catheter can lead to a certain type of bladder cancer called squamous cell bladder cancer.
6. Family History: Those with family members who have had bladder cancer are more likely to develop it themselves.
7. Personal History of Bladder Cancer: Those who have previously had bladder cancer are more likely to get it again.
8. Certain Medications or Herbal Supplements: The use of the diabetes medication pioglitazone for more than a year has been linked to an elevated risk of bladder cancer. Also, a dietary supplement called aristolochic acid (mainly used in weight-loss products) is associated with a high risk.
9. Race: White people are more likely to be diagnosed with bladder cancer than people of other races.
10. Radiation and Chemotherapy: Women who receive radiation therapy for cervical cancer have an increased risk of bladder cancer, as do people who have undergone chemotherapy with the drug cyclophosphamide.
Please note that having one or more of these risk factors does not automatically mean you will get bladder cancer. But, it would be a good idea to lead a healthy lifestyle and take preventive measures where possible. For any concerns or symptoms, always consult with a healthcare professional.
Signs and Symptoms of Bladder cancer
Certainly. Please note that these signs and symptoms don’t necessarily mean you have bladder cancer. They could be due to other medical conditions. However, if you experience any of them, it’s crucial to consult a doctor.
1. Hematuria: Blood in urine is the most common symptom of bladder cancer. Sometimes, the color of your urine may turn pink, orange, or even darker red.
2. Painful urination: Another sign can be a burning sensation or pain when urinating.
3. Frequent urination: You may feel constantly need to urinate but pass only small amounts of urine.
4. Urinary Incontinence: This refers to the inability to control the flow of urine.
5. Back Pain: Often, bladder cancer can cause lower back pain, typically on one side of the body.
6. Swelling in the lower legs: If bladder cancer has spread to lymph nodes, it might cause swelling in the legs.
7. Anemia or fatigue: As bladder cancer progresses, it could lead to anemia (a low red blood cell count). This, in turn, may cause fatigue or tiredness.
8. Weight loss: Unexplained weight loss can also be a symptom of bladder cancer, especially if it’s advanced.
In advanced stages, bladder cancer might cause pain in the rectum, anus, pelvis, flank (side), or even bone pain if it’s spread that far.
Always, consult your doctor if you are experiencing any of these symptoms. Regular check-ups can help in early detection of such diseases, which can often lead to better outcomes.
Diagnosis Bladder cancer
Bladder cancer is a type of malignancy that begins in your bladder, a balloon-shaped organ in your pelvic area that stores urine. Although it can develop at any age, bladder cancer is most common in older adults.
The majority of bladder cancers are diagnosed at an early stage, when the disease is highly treatable. However, even early-stage bladder cancer can recur in the bladder. For this reason, people with bladder cancer typically need follow-up tests for years to look for bladder cancer that recurs or advances to a higher stage.
Symptoms of bladder cancer can include blood in urine (hematuria), pain during urination, frequent urination, back pain, and pelvic pain. These symptoms could also indicate conditions other than cancer, but if you have any of them, it’s best that you speak to a healthcare professional.
Doctors aren’t entirely sure what causes bladder cancer, but they have identified a number of risk factors, such as smoking, exposure to certain chemicals, previous radiation treatment, chronic bladder inflammation, genetic predispositions, and other factors.
There are several types of bladder cancer, including urothelial carcinoma (also known as transitional cell carcinoma), squamous cell carcinoma, and adenocarcinoma.
After a diagnosis of bladder cancer, doctors will usually stage the cancer to determine its extent. Treatment options will depend on the type and stage of cancer, as well as individual patient factors. Options may include surgical procedures to remove cancerous tissue, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and others.
Treatment of Bladder cancer
Bladder cancer treatment often depends on the stage, grade, specific type of the cancer, and the patient’s overall health. Here are few common methods of treating bladder cancer:
1. Surgery: It is the most common treatment for bladder cancer. The procedure can vary from transurethral resection (TUR), cystectomy which is the removal of the bladder (partial or radical), bladder reconstruction, or urinary diversion.
2. Immunotherapy: Also known as biological therapy, it aims to boost the body’s own defence mechanism to destroy cancer. Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) is the most common immunotherapy for bladder cancer.
3. Chemotherapy: This procedure involves using drugs to kill cancer cells. In bladder cancer, it can be used before surgery to shrink tumors (neoadjuvant therapy) or after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells (adjuvant therapy). It can also be the main treatment in cases where surgery isn’t an option.
4. Radiation therapy: This method involves using high-energy beams (such as X-rays) to kill cancer cells. It’s often used in conjunction with chemotherapy
5. Targeted therapy: These treatments target specific genes or proteins that contribute to the growth and survival of cancer cells.
6. Intravesical therapy: This involves putting chemotherapy or immunotherapy directly into the bladder, typically for early-stage bladder cancers.
Each therapy has potential side-effects and it is vital for patients to discuss these with their treating doctor. Depending on the stage and grade of the cancer, a combination of treatments might be used. Furthermore, the patient’s health status, age, lifestyle, and personal preferences are also taken into account when deciding the best mode of treatment.
Please consult with a healthcare provider for treatment options tailored to individual health conditions. The information provided is general and should not replace professional medical advice.
Medications commonly used for Bladder cancer
Bladder cancer treatment often involves a combination of therapies, including surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Here are some of the medications commonly used for bladder cancer:
1. Chemotherapy Drugs: These drugs kill cancer cells and include cisplatin, gemcitabine, methotrexate, vinblastine, doxorubicin, and paclitaxel.
2. Immunotherapy Drugs: Immunotherapy uses the body’s own immune system to fight cancer. Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) is a form of immunotherapy that’s often used for early-stage bladder cancer. Other immunotherapy drugs like pembrolizumab (Keytruda) and atezolizumab (Tecentriq) are mainly used for advanced bladder cancer.
3. Targeted Therapy Drugs: These drugs target specific characteristics of cancer cells, such as a protein that allows the cancer cells to grow in a rapid or abnormal way. Examples of targeted therapy drugs for advanced bladder cancer include erdafitinib (Balversa) and enfortumab vedotin (Padcev).
4. Intravesical Therapy: BCG or chemotherapy drugs like mitomycin are delivered directly into the bladder through a catheter. This therapy is usually used for non-invasive bladder cancer.
Please note, it’s important to discuss with your doctor or healthcare provider about the best course of treatment for your specific diagnosis. Everyone’s situation is unique and treatment options can vary depending on the stage and grade of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. Your doctor will also consider the potential side effects, your personal preferences, and the likely outcomes of treatment. Side effects of these medications can range from mild to severe and it’s essential to communicate with your doctor about any symptoms you experience during treatment.
Prevention of Bladder cancer
Preventing bladder cancer involves several measures, although there are no guaranteed methods as bladder cancer can still develop despite efforts to avoid risks. Here are some prevention strategies:
1. Quit Smoking: It is well known that the majority of bladder cancer cases are linked to smoking. Aside from causing lung cancer, smoking can also cause bladder cancer. Therefore, it’s essential to quit smoking.
2. Limit exposure to certain chemicals: If you work with certain inorganic chemicals, such as those used in the manufacturing of dyes, rubber, leather, textiles, and paint, you may have a higher risk of bladder cancer. Follow safety instructions to avoid unnecessary contact with these substances.
3. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water may reduce risk as it dilutes the concentration of potential cancer-causing substances, flushing them out of the system more quickly.
4. Follow a healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may contribute to reducing the risk.
5. Regular Checkups: If you’ve had bladder cancer previously, it’s crucial to have regular check-ups since bladder cancer can recur.
6. Avoid exposure to arsenic: In some areas, drinking water may contain high levels of arsenic, which has been linked to bladder as well as other types of cancers. Using a good quality water filter can limit exposure.
7. Minimize use of certain medications and supplements: The diabetes medication pioglitazone (Actos) and diet supplement aristolochic acid have been linked to bladder cancer. Discuss the risks with your doctor.
Remember the best advice will come from healthcare professionals and regular screening or check-ups are advisable especially if you have a high risk of developing bladder cancer. Your doctor can recommend how often you need these tests.
FAQ’s about Bladder cancer
Here are some common frequently asked questions (FAQs) about bladder cancer:
1. What is bladder cancer?
Bladder cancer is a disease in which certain cells in the bladder become abnormal and multiply without control or order. The bladder is a hollow, muscular organ that stores urine.
2. What are the symptoms of bladder cancer?
Symptoms may include blood in the urine (making the urine slightly rusty to deep red), pain during urination, and frequent urination, or feeling the need to urinate without results.
3. What causes bladder cancer?
Several factors can increase your risk of bladder cancer, including; smoking and other tobacco use, exposure to chemicals, especially working in a job that requires exposure to chemicals, past radiation exposure, chronic irritation of the bladder, and parasitic infections.
4. How is bladder cancer diagnosed?
Doctors use many tests to find, or diagnose, bladder cancer. They may also use tests to find out if cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Diagnosis may include a physical exam, urinalysis, urine cytology, cystoscopy, and biopsy.
5. How is bladder cancer treated?
Treatment options for bladder cancer depend on a number of factors including the type of cancer, the stage of the disease, patient’s overall health and patient’s own preferences. Options typically include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy.
6. Is bladder cancer preventable?
While it’s not always possible to prevent bladder cancer, you can take steps to help reduce your risk. For example, you can quit smoking, drink fluids, especially water, eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and take protective measures if you work with chemicals.
7. Can bladder cancer reoccur after treatment?
Yes, bladder cancer can recur, meaning it can come back after treatment. Regular follow-up visits with the healthcare provider are important, as it can recur or progress to a higher stage.
Always discuss these questions and any others you may have with your healthcare provider, as there can be additional specifics related to your individual health condition.
Useful links
Bladder cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of your bladder, the organ that stores urine. Several types exist, such as urothelial carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and adenocarcinoma. Risk factors include smoking, aging, exposure to certain chemicals, chronic bladder inflammation, and a family history of bladder cancer. It can be asymptomatic or might cause symptoms like frequent urination, blood in urine (hematuria), pelvic pain, and back pain.
Below are links to some useful journals on bladder cancer:
Please note, some of these articles might be behind a paywall. Usually, institutions like universities or hospitals have access. If you are a patient, it’s best to consult these articles with your medical provider.
Complications of Bladder cancer
Bladder cancer can result in several complications. Here are some:
1. Risk of Recurrence: Bladder cancer has a high risk of recurrence. This means that even after treatment, the cancer could come back. Regular checkups are essential to monitor for recurrence.
2. Spread of Cancer: If not diagnosed and treated early, bladder cancer can invade the muscular wall of the bladder and spread to other parts of the body such as the lymph nodes, bones, lungs, or liver. This is called metastasis and is a severe complication that often has a poor prognosis.
3. Side Effects of Treatment: Treatments for bladder cancer like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery can cause significant side effects. For instance, chemotherapy can lead to fatigue, nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and increased risk of infection. Surgical interventions can lead to complications like infections, bleeding, and urinary issues.
4. Changes in Urinary Function: Depending on the stage of the cancer and the type of treatment given, bladder cancer patients may experience urinary incontinence or need a urinary diversion procedure. In some cases, the entire bladder may need to be removed, and a new way to store and remove urine must be created.
5. Psychological Effects: A bladder cancer diagnosis and its treatment can have psychological repercussions, such as anxiety, depression, and fear of recurrence. The changes in body image and sexual function as a result of the treatment can also lead to psychosocial distress.
6. Quality of Life Impact: People with bladder cancer may need to undergo multiple treatments, and this can significantly impact their quality of life. They might experience tiredness and other physical discomforts, impacting their work, family life, social activities, and mental well-being.
As each case is unique, the complications and prognosis of bladder cancer can vary widely among individuals. Therefore, a health professional should always be consulted for personalized advice.
Home remedies of Bladder cancer
While no home remedies can cure or treat bladder cancer directly, several lifestyle changes and remedies can support overall health, help manage symptoms, and potentially aid in the effectiveness of medical treatments. Always consult with your doctor before beginning any home remedy regimen. Here are some suggestions:
1. Healthy Diet: Consuming a variety of vitamin-rich and antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, including those rich in carotenoids and polyphenols, can boost immunity and overall health.
2. Staying Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water each day helps the kidneys to clear out waste and toxins effectively, which can contribute to overall urinary health.
3. Regular Exercise: Regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy body weight, boost the immune system, and reduce inflammation.
4. Avoid Smoking: Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors for bladder cancer. Avoiding smoking or stopping if you are a current smoker can reduce your risk.
5. Moderate Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of various cancers, including bladder cancer. Practice moderation in your alcohol consumption.
6. Herbal Teas: Certain herbal teas, like green tea, is laden with antioxidants which could support overall health, including urinary health.
7. Stress Management: Chronic stress can exacerbate symptoms and cause other health problems. Switching your activities to reduce stress such as practicing mindfulness, meditating, and yoga could benefit your overall well-being.
Again, it’s important to note that these are complementary measures and should not replace any prescribed treatments or medications. Always consult with your healthcare professional before introducing any significant changes to diet, exercise, or supplementation.
Editorial Team