Carcinoma of the bladder: Understanding & raising awareness key, says expert

Hyderabad: May happens to be Bladder Cancer Awareness Month but awareness about this particular type of cancer is relatively low and needs more attention.

Carcinoma of the bladder is a significant health concern, affecting numerous individuals worldwide. As per the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) global estimates 2020, one in five persons develops cancer during their lifetime. While lung and prostate cancer among men and breast cancer among women remain the most common types of cancer, bladder cancer accounts for 4.4% of the cases among various types of cancer.

What is carcinoma of the bladder?

Dr M. Gopichand, a senior urologist from KIMS, elaborates on various aspects of carcinoma of the bladder, risk factors, detection of early symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

“Bladder cancer particularly affects the urinary system. Carcinoma of the bladder refers to cancerous growths that develop in the lining of the bladder. The majority of bladder cancers are transitional cell carcinomas, which originate in the urothelial cells lining the bladder. Therefore, urothelial carcinoma is most common. Squamous cell carcinoma and Adenocarcinoma are other types of bladder cancers, which are comparatively less common,” says the doctor.

Risk factors

Speaking about the risk factors, Dr Gopichand says, “Several factors can enhance the risk of developing bladder carcinoma, including smoking, exposure to certain chemicals and toxins, chronic bladder inflammation, advanced age, and a family history of the disease. Additionally, men are more susceptible to bladder cancer than women.”

Warning symptoms and diagnosis

“Early detection of any disease is vital for successful treatment. Symptoms of carcinoma of the bladder may include blood in urine, frequent urination, pain during urination, and pelvic pain. If any of these symptoms arise, it is crucial to consult a urologist promptly. Diagnostic methods such as cystoscopy, imaging tests (CT or MRI scans), urine cytology, and biopsy help confirm the presence of cancer and determine its stage and grade,” adds the urologist.

Treatment options

“Treatment for bladder carcinoma depends on various factors, including the stage and grade of cancer, the patient’s overall health and personal preferences. Options may include surgical procedures (transurethral resection, partial or radical cystectomy), chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of these. The goal is to remove or destroy cancer cells while preserving bladder function whenever possible,” informs Dr Gopichand.

Prevention

“Prevention plays a crucial role in reducing the incidence of bladder carcinoma. Encouraging individuals to quit smoking, promoting awareness about occupational hazards and protective measures, and emphasising the importance of regular check-ups are key preventive strategies. Bladder Cancer Awareness Month provides an excellent platform to educate about the risk factors, symptoms, and early detection. We should spread awareness, support research initiatives, and improve outcomes for those affected by bladder carcinoma,” avers Dr Gopichand.

“Through public awareness campaigns, educational initiatives, and early detection, we can make a difference in reducing the impact of this disease. Bladder Cancer Awareness Month serves as a reminder to prioritise prevention, knowledge, and support for patients and their families. Together, we can strive towards a future where bladder carcinoma is better understood, prevented, and successfully treated,” adds the doctor.