Renal Sciences | by Dr. Pankaj Kumar Gupta | Published on 25/10/2024
The word 'cancer' often stirs up fear among us, but not ignoring the signs and taking the right action can replace uncertainty with hope and better outcomes.
The bladder is a hollow organ located in the lower part of your abdomen. The prime function of the bladder is to store urine. The bladder works with the kidneys to remove toxins from your body. Bladder cancer, though not discussed much, is one of the most detectable cancers in its early stages. It occurs when the abnormal cells in the bladder start growing uncontrollably and may spread to nearby tissues or organs. If detected early, it offers a good chance of recovery. If you're experiencing any such problem, don't ignore it. Contact our best Urologist or Oncologist at CMRI Hospital, Kolkata today for expert consultation and treatment.
Early detection and intervention can significantly improve the treatment outcomes of bladder cancer. Check for these five warning signs:
The above symptoms of bladder cancer are similar to some other less serious conditions as well. Therefore, you should consult your doctor to check for the actual problem. Early intervention can help in better treatment and results.
Diagnosis of bladder cancer involves multiple steps. Your doctor may start with a urinalysis and then cytology and cystoscopy may be performed. Below is a brief understanding of these procedures.
Urinalysis: This is done to detect blood or abnormal cells in your urine and to rule out infection.
Cytology: This procedure examines the cells under a microscope and checks if there are any abnormalities in the cells. This test alone could not confirm the possibility of bladder cancer, and therefore, your doctor can prescribe a cystoscopy.
Cystoscopy: In this procedure, a thin tube with a camera known as a cystoscope will be inserted into the bladder via the urethra. This helps in visually inspecting tumours.
Imaging procedures such as a CT scan or MRI to check for the spread of a tumour.
Bladder cancer is more common in older adults, with men being at higher risk than women. In India, bladder cancer accounts for around 3.9% of cancer cases among males, according to the National Cancer Registry Program (ICMR).
Smoking alone can increase the risk of bladder cancer by 2-3 times. Other risk factors include:
We understand that the treatment of cancer can be overwhelming for the patient as well as their loved ones. At CK Birla Hospital, Kolkata, we combine comprehensive cancer care with advanced diagnostics, personalised treatment plans, and compassionate support throughout your treatment journey. To get a second opinion or for any concerns reach out to us.
If detected early, the treatment of bladder cancer provides good chances of recovery and survival. Being aware of the warning signs and undergoing regular screenings can help detect the potential risk. This can help in timely diagnosis and treatment without causing further delays. Now that many advanced treatment options are available for bladder cancer, there is more hope and chances of survival than ever before. If you experience anything unusual or any of the above symptoms, consult your healthcare provider immediately.