Bladder Cancer

Causes

• Tobacco Use: Smoking cigarettes is the leading cause of bladder cancer.
• Chemical Exposure: Occupational exposure to certain chemicals, such as those used in
  the dye industry or in rubber manufacturing.
• Age: Risk increases with age, with most cases diagnosed after the age of 55.
• Gender: Men are more likely to develop bladder cancer than women.
• Chronic Bladder Inflammation: Long-term urinary tract infections or inflammation
  may increase the risk.
• Bladder Birth Defects: Some individuals may have an increased risk due to birth defects
  affecting the bladder.
• Previous Cancer Treatment: Previous radiation therapy or chemotherapy may increase
  the risk.

Symptoms

• Blood in the Urine (Hematuria): Often the first noticeable symptom, urine may appear
  red or pink.
• Frequent Urination: Urinating more often than usual.
• Painful Urination: Discomfort or pain during urination.
• Pelvic Pain: Pain in the pelvic area.
• Back Pain: Pain in the lower back, especially if the cancer has spread.
• Urinary Urgency: Strong, sudden urge to urinate.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Recurrent UTIs may be a symptom, especially if
  accompanied by other symptoms.

Types

1. Transitional Cell Carcinoma (TCC):

• Most common type, arises from the transitional cells lining the bladder.

2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma:

• Develops in response to chronic irritation or inflammation of the bladder.

3. Adenocarcinoma:

• Arises from glandular cells in the bladder, less common than TCC.

Diagnosis

• Urinalysis: Testing urine for blood and other abnormalities.
• Cystoscopy: Using a thin, flexible tube with a camera to examine the inside of the
  bladder.
• Biopsy: Removing a sample of bladder tissue for examination under a microscope to
  confirm cancer.
• Imaging Tests: CT scan, MRI, ultrasound, and PET scan to visualize the bladder and
  detect tumors.

Treatment

• Surgery:

1. 1. Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor (TURBT): Removing cancerous
      tissue through the urethra.
   2. Partial or Radical Cystectomy: Removal of part or all of the bladder.

• Chemotherapy: Drugs to kill cancer cells, used before or after surgery.
• Immunotherapy: Boosting the immune system to fight cancer.
• Radiation Therapy: High-energy beams to kill cancer cells, sometimes used in
  combination with chemotherapy.
• Intravesical Therapy: Medications injected directly into the bladder.

Prevention

• Quit Smoking: Smoking cessation can significantly reduce the risk of bladder cancer.
• Limit Chemical Exposure: Follow safety guidelines when working with chemicals
  known to increase the risk.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids may help reduce the risk.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity may increase the risk of bladder cancer.
• Regular Check-ups: Report any unusual symptoms to a healthcare provider promptly.