Bladder cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the cells of the bladder, which is a hollow organ in the lower abdomen that stores urine. This cancer typically begins in the inner lining of the bladder and can potentially spread to other parts of the body if not treated early. Bladder cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, especially in older adults.
There are several different types of bladder cancer, with the most common being urothelial carcinoma (also known as transitional cell carcinoma), which originates in the urothelial cells that line the bladder. Other less common types include squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma.
What are the Symptoms of Bladder Cancer
Bladder cancer can cause a variety of symptoms, although it’s important to note that some people with bladder cancer may not experience any symptoms in the early stages of the disease. The symptoms of bladder cancer can be similar to other urinary tract conditions, so it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation if you experience any of the following:
- Blood in the urine (hematuria): This is one of the most common symptoms of bladder cancer. Blood in the urine can be visible to the naked eye (gross hematuria) or only detected under a microscope (microscopic hematuria).
- Frequent urination: You may find yourself needing to urinate more frequently than usual, and this may be accompanied by a sense of urgency.
- Pain or discomfort during urination: Some individuals with bladder cancer may experience pain, burning, or discomfort when urinating.
- Lower back pain: This can occur when the cancer has advanced and affects the surrounding tissues or organs.
- Pelvic pain: Bladder cancer can sometimes cause pain in the pelvic area, particularly if the tumor has grown into nearby structures.
- Changes in urinary habits: You may notice changes in your urinary patterns, such as difficulty in starting or stopping urine flow or a weak urine stream.
- Unexplained weight loss: This is a nonspecific symptom that can be associated with various medical conditions, including bladder cancer.
- Swelling in the lower legs: If the cancer has advanced and affects the lymph nodes or obstructs the flow of urine, it may lead to leg swelling.
- Fatigue: As with weight loss, fatigue is a nonspecific symptom but can be present in people with advanced bladder cancer.
What Causes of Bladder Cancer
Bladder cancer typically develops when the cells in the bladder begin to grow uncontrollably. The exact cause of bladder cancer is not always clear, but several risk factors and potential causes have been identified. These include:
- Smoking: Smoking tobacco is one of the most significant risk factors for bladder cancer. Chemicals in tobacco smoke can be absorbed into the bloodstream and eventually excreted in the urine, exposing the lining of the bladder to harmful substances.
- Chemical Exposure: Certain chemicals and industrial substances, such as those used in the manufacture of dyes, rubber, textiles, and plastics, may increase the risk of bladder cancer when individuals are exposed to them in the workplace.
- Age: Bladder cancer is more common in older adults, with the risk increasing with age.
- Gender: Men are more likely than women to develop bladder cancer.
- Race and Ethnicity: Bladder cancer rates vary among different racial and ethnic groups, with higher rates in Caucasians compared to African Americans and Hispanics.
- Family History: People with a family history of bladder cancer may have a slightly increased risk.
- Chronic Bladder Inflammation: Chronic bladder infections, bladder stones, or other conditions that cause long-term irritation or inflammation of the bladder may increase the risk of bladder cancer.
- Bladder Birth Defects: Some rare birth defects affecting the structure of the bladder may increase the risk of bladder cancer.
- Medications: Certain medications, such as cyclophosphamide (used in chemotherapy) and pioglitazone (used to treat diabetes), have been associated with an increased risk of bladder cancer when used over extended periods.
- Radiation Therapy: Previous radiation therapy to the pelvis, often used in the treatment of other cancers, can slightly increase the risk of bladder cancer.
Types of bladder cancer
Urothelial Carcinoma (Transitional Cell Carcinoma)
This is the most common type of bladder cancer, accounting for about 90% of all cases. It starts in the urothelial cells, which line the inside of the bladder. Urothelial carcinoma can also occur in other parts of the urinary system, such as the ureters and the renal pelvis.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
This type of bladder cancer begins in the thin, flat cells that can form in the bladder in response to long-term irritation or inflammation. It accounts for a smaller percentage of bladder cancer cases and is often associated with chronic bladder infections, urinary stones, or schistosomiasis (a parasitic infection).
Adenocarcinoma
Adenocarcinoma of the bladder is a rare form of bladder cancer that develops in the glandular cells of the bladder lining. It typically has a worse prognosis compared to urothelial carcinoma.
Small Cell Carcinoma
Small cell carcinoma of the bladder is a highly aggressive and less common type of bladder cancer. It tends to grow quickly and may require different treatment approaches than urothelial carcinoma.
Other Rare Types
There are also some rare types of bladder cancer, such as sarcoma and lymphoma, but these account for a very small percentage of cases.
It’s important to note that the treatment and prognosis for bladder cancer can vary depending on the type and stage of the cancer at the time of diagnosis. Early detection and proper management are crucial for better outcomes, so individuals with any potential symptoms or risk factors should seek medical evaluation and advice.
How is bladder cancer diagnosed?
Bladder cancer can be diagnosed through a combination of medical history review, physical examinations, and various diagnostic tests. Here are the most common steps in diagnosing bladder cancer:
- Medical History and Physical Examination: The first step typically involves a discussion with a healthcare provider about your medical history, including any risk factors you may have for bladder cancer (such as smoking or exposure to certain chemicals). A physical examination may also be conducted to check for any signs or symptoms.
- Urine Tests: Urine samples may be collected and analyzed for the presence of blood (hematuria) or abnormal cells. Hematuria is one of the most common symptoms of bladder cancer. If blood is detected in the urine, additional tests are usually ordered.
- Cystoscopy: This procedure involves using a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end (cystoscope) to examine the inside of the bladder. It can help identify tumors or other abnormalities in the bladder lining. Cystoscopy can be performed as a flexible cystoscopy, which is less invasive and done in an office setting, or as a rigid cystoscopy, which may be performed in a hospital.
- Imaging Studies: Imaging tests, such as computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or ultrasound, may be used to evaluate the extent of the cancer, its size, and whether it has spread to nearby organs or lymph nodes.
- Biopsy: If suspicious lesions or tumors are found during cystoscopy, a biopsy may be performed. During a biopsy, a small sample of tissue is collected from the bladder lining for examination under a microscope. This is the most definitive way to confirm the presence of bladder cancer and determine its type and grade.
- Staging: If bladder cancer is confirmed, further tests may be conducted to determine the stage of the cancer. Staging helps to determine the extent of cancer spread and guides treatment decisions. Staging may include additional imaging studies or other procedures.
- Additional Tests: In some cases, additional tests, such as urine cytology (examining urine for cancer cells), may be used to aid in diagnosis and monitoring.
How is bladder cancer treated?
Surgery
a. Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor (TURBT): This is a common procedure for early-stage bladder cancer. It involves the removal of the tumor using a cystoscope inserted through the urethra.
b. Partial or Radical Cystectomy: In cases where the cancer is more advanced or aggressive, a portion (partial cystectomy) or the entire bladder (radical cystectomy) may need to be removed surgically. If the entire bladder is removed, surgeons will create a new way for urine to leave the body, typically through an ileal conduit or neobladder.
Intravesical Therapy
a. Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) Immunotherapy: BCG is a type of immunotherapy that is instilled into the bladder. It can stimulate the immune system to fight off cancer cells and is often used for non-invasive, early-stage bladder cancer.
b. Intravesical Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy drugs may also be administered directly into the bladder to treat superficial bladder cancer.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays or other forms of radiation to target and kill cancer cells. It is sometimes used in combination with surgery or as a primary treatment for patients who are not good surgical candidates.
Systemic Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy drugs can be given intravenously to treat more advanced bladder cancers that have spread beyond the bladder. This treatment option is typically used when the cancer has metastasized to distant organs.
Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy
Newer treatments, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (e.g., pembrolizumab, atezolizumab) and targeted therapies (e.g., erdafitinib), have shown promise in treating advanced or metastatic bladder cancer by targeting specific molecules or pathways involved in cancer growth.
Clinical Trials
Patients with bladder cancer may have the opportunity to participate in clinical trials, which investigate experimental treatments or new combinations of existing therapies.
Prevention
Preventing bladder cancer involves adopting healthy lifestyle choices and minimizing exposure to risk factors associated with the disease. While not all cases of bladder cancer can be prevented, following these guidelines can help reduce your risk:
Quit Smoking: Smoking is the most significant risk factor for bladder cancer. If you smoke, quitting can greatly decrease your risk. Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke as well.
Limit Exposure to Chemicals: If you work in industries where you’re exposed to chemicals like aromatic amines, which are known carcinogens, take appropriate safety precautions and follow workplace safety guidelines.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water may help dilute the concentration of potential carcinogens in the bladder.
Eat a Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can provide essential nutrients and antioxidants that may help reduce cancer risk. Avoid excessive consumption of processed and red meats.
Exercise Regularly: Engaging in regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of several types of cancer, including bladder cancer.
Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption is a risk factor for bladder cancer. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation.
Also Read: Cancer: Definition Types, Causes, Prevention, and Treatment
