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Bladder Cancer Treatment in Dhakuria

Bladder Cancer

Bladder Cancer Treatment in Dhakuria

Bladder cancer is often found when patients notice symptoms like blood in the urine, frequent urination, or discomfort. At our Urology department, we use advanced technology to thoroughly check for bladder cancer. This includes using cystoscopy (a camera to look inside the bladder), urine tests, and imaging like CT scans to see how far the cancer has spread. Based on the cancer's stage, we offer different treatment options such as Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor (TURBT),  Intravesical Therapy, Chemotherapy, Radiation, and in some cases, removing the bladder (Radical Cystectomy).

Our team provides regular follow-ups and care after treatment to lower the chances of cancer coming back and to improve their quality of life.

FAQ's

Bladder cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells lining the bladder, the organ in your pelvis that stores urine. It happens when abnormal bladder cells begin to spread out of control. Most bladder cancers begin in the cells of the bladder’s inner lining, called urothelial cells.

Bladder cancer, the fourth most prevalent cancer among men, mostly affects this demographic. Compared to women, they have a four-fold increased risk of developing it. Women's disease progresses more quickly when signs like hematuria—blood in the urine—are not recognised promptly.

The mean diagnostic age is 73 years old, and white males are more likely than black men to be affected. Regarding bladder cancer, early detection through symptom awareness is essential for efficient treatment and better results.

Hematuria, or blood in the urine, is the classic sign of bladder cancer but can also be a sign of other illnesses. You must see a doctor as soon as you notice this symptom. Dysuria, painful urination, frequent urination, weak or interrupted urine flow, and antibiotic-resistant bladder infections are other indicators of bladder cancer. 

The fact that these symptoms could be mistaken for benign urinary problems emphasises how crucial a medical examination is to the proper diagnosis and prompt treatment of bladder cancer.

The two main risk factors for bladder cancer are secondhand smoke exposure and smoking, which greatly increases the risk. Additionally raising the possibility are radiation therapy and several chemotherapy medications used to treat cancer. Higher prevalence is linked to occupational exposure to chemicals found in rubber, leather, hairdressing supplies, and colours.

In addition, the chance of developing bladder squamous cell carcinoma is increased by continuous catheter use, recurrent bladder infections, and bladder stones. It is crucial to be aware of these characteristics to manage bladder cancer through prevention and early detection.

Bladder cancer is usually diagnosed through a combination of tests, including:

  • Urine Tests: To detect cancer cells or blood in the urine.

  • Cystoscopy: To inspect the bladder, a thin, flexible tube with a camera is passed through the urethra.

  • Imaging Tests: CT scans, MRIs, or ultrasounds may be used to create detailed images of the bladder.

  • Biopsy: During a cystoscopy, the doctor may take a tissue sample from the bladder for further testing to confirm if it is cancerous.

The treatment experience varies depending on the type and stage of bladder cancer. Surgery may require a hospital stay, and recovery times vary. Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy can cause side effects such as fatigue, nausea, and bladder irritation. Your physician will keep an eye on your progress and modify your treatment regimen as necessary. It’s important to have open communication with your healthcare team to manage side effects and ensure the best possible outcome.

Risk factors for bladder cancer include smoking (including secondhand smoke), being around chemicals in some jobs (like hair colouring and styling), and receiving certain treatments (like radiation therapy and some chemotherapy medications). The chance is further increased by bladder stones, recurrent infections, and previous bladder cancer diagnoses.

By being aware of these variables, one can take preventative actions to manage and perhaps lower the chance of developing bladder cancer, such as making lifestyle changes and getting regular screenings.

Most bladder malignancies usually do not grow quickly; instead, they usually grow slowly. If treatment for abnormal cells in the bladder lining is not received, the tumours may eventually spread to surrounding tissues or other parts of the body. Early identification and treatment, however, can greatly enhance results. Depending on the cancer's stage and extent, bladder cancer treatment options include Surgery, Chemotherapy, Radiation Therapy, and Immunotherapy.

Effective illness management requires routine monitoring and follow-up care to stop the disease from progressing to more advanced stages or reoccurring.

Age at diagnosis affects bladder cancer survival rates, with younger patients having greater rates. The National Cancer Institute reports that the five-year relative survival rate for people with localised bladder cancer is 67% for those 65 years of age and older, 79% for people in the 50–64 age group, and 84% for people under 50. These survival rates represent the probability of living for at least five years following diagnosis in cases of bladder cancer. 

The stage of the cancer, how well the treatment is working, and general health all affect survival. For better outcomes and survival rates across age groups, tests for early detection are essential.

For those at high risk, such as individuals with a history of smoking or exposure to certain chemicals, regular screening is important. Your doctor may recommend periodic urine tests, cystoscopies, or imaging studies to monitor for early signs of bladder cancer. The frequency of these tests will depend on your specific risk factors and overall health.