Bladder Cancer

Approximately about 90% of cancers of urinary tract is accounted by bladder cancer be it the ureters, renal, bladder, urethra or the pelvis.

In few cases this disease remains confined to the lining of the bladder while in some cases the cancer invades or spreads to the other regions.

Majority of the time the bladder cancer occurs or effects the older people.

The most important risk factor for this disease is smoking. This leads to greater chances of developing the bladder cancer. It is also proved that exposure to certain chemicals which are toxic and even drugs usage may lead to bladder cancer.

Bladder Cancer Symptoms or Bladder Cancer Sign

Blood in the urine should not be neglected as this is the most predictive bladder cancer symptoms. This condition is called hematuria. It may sometimes be visible to the naked eye and sometimes it may not until and unless observed under the microscope.

This condition is usually painless and often mistaken with other disorders. This again does not necessarily mean that blood in urine is a sure confirmation of this disease. The other common bladder cancer symptoms are discussed below:

  • Urinary urgency or frequent urination, or feeling the need to urinate without results.
  • Pain on urination (dysuria).
  • Back or abdominal pain. [Is Pain a Symptom of Bladder Cancer]
  • Loss of appetite and weight.
  • Weakness or tiredness

One should keep in mind that all the above mentioned bladder cancer symptoms are not sure signs. These are the common symptoms as well for other Infections, benign tumors, bladder stones, or other problems. But it is very important to check with the doctor for confirmation on onset of these symptoms.

Bladder Cancer Prognosis and Bladder Cancer Survival Rate

The stages of this disease are termed as superficial and invasive for its better understanding. In terms of survival rate superficial stage has a 5-year survival rate of about 85% and the invasive stage has a less favorable prognosis when compared to the former one.

The life span of patients with metastasized bladder cancer is very low surprisingly only 2 years in approximately 5% of patients. Recurrent bladder cancer or for that matter any cancer in its recurrent stage has very poor recovery or prognosis.

Bladder Cancer Prevention

Studies reveal that Bladder cancer prevention is not possible. Not to smoke is the ultimate best way to lower the risk. Drinking plenty of fluids daily also lowers the risk for bladder cancer.

As mentioned above though this disease can’t always be prevented, some of these steps along with the above mentioned should help to reduce the risk:

  • Be careful with chemicals and private water sources: While working with chemicals, one should follow all safety instructions to avoid exposure. Well water should be tested for high levels of arsenic of course.
  • Eat broccoli well: Researchers indicate that a high intake of cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli and cabbage, may help to cut the risk of bladder cancer in men.
  • Studies reveal that although eating plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits is important for overall health an to fight against any type of cancer only broccoli and cabbage seem to affect bladder cancer risk.
  • Doctor consultation at the earliest: On notice of blood in urine, immediately one should see a doctor.

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