Bladder Cancer - Part 1: Risk Factors, Symptoms, and Diagnostic Methods

Bladder cancer is a type of cancer that usually begins on the inner surface of the bladder, resulting from the uncontrolled growth of cells. This type of cancer is widespread globally and is more commonly found in men than in women. Bladder cancer is associated with specific risk factors, genetic factors, and various environmental factors.

I will begin this first part of my two-part article on 'Bladder Cancer' with the definition of bladder cancer. I would like to emphasize the importance of carefully reading about risk factors and symptoms. I will conclude this part with diagnostic methods.

Happy reading...

What is Bladder Cancer?

Bladder cancer is a type of cancer that originates on the inner surface of the bladder, a organ responsible for storing urine. It occurs due to the abnormal proliferation of cells in the bladder. Bladder cancer typically begins with the uncontrolled growth and proliferation of cells covering the inner surface of the bladder.

What are the Risk Factors for Bladder Cancer?

• Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of developing bladder cancer. Smokers have a higher risk of bladder cancer compared to non-smokers.
• Age: Bladder cancer can occur at any age, but it is more commonly seen in middle-aged and elderly adults. Advancing age is a risk factor for this type of cancer.
• Gender: Bladder cancer is more prevalent in males than in females.
• Chemical Exposure: Bladder cancer is more common in individuals exposed to chemicals in rubber and paint or agricultural pesticides.
• Radiation and Medications: Radiation therapy or certain medications may increase the risk of bladder cancer.

What are the Symptoms of Bladder Cancer?

The symptoms of bladder cancer can vary from person to person, and sometimes the symptoms may be mild initially. However, as bladder cancer progresses, the symptoms typically become more noticeable. Here are common symptoms of bladder cancer:

• Hematuria (Blood in Urine): The most apparent symptom is often painless, clot-free blood in the urine. The presence of blood in the urine, with a color ranging from pink to red or brown, indicates a significant symptom. However, bloody urine is not exclusive to bladder cancer and may signify other health issues.
• Pain or Burning Sensation During Urination: Individuals with bladder cancer may experience pain or a burning sensation while urinating. This symptom often resembles urinary tract infections and should be carefully evaluated.
• Frequent Urination: Bladder cancer can lead to urinary obstruction, increasing the need to urinate frequently.
• Incontinence: Bladder cancer can affect normal urine control, resulting in issues with incontinence.
• Pelvic Pain or Pressure: As bladder cancer progresses, a feeling of pain or pressure in the pelvic region may develop.
• Constant Urinary Tract Infections: Bladder cancer increases susceptibility to urinary tract infections, leading to persistent urinary tract infections.

Symptoms often vary depending on the stage, size, and location of the cancer. Individuals experiencing these symptoms should consult a urology specialist and, if necessary, be directed for further investigations. Early diagnosis is crucial for the treatment of bladder cancer, so concerns related to symptoms should be communicated to a urology specialist promptly.

What are the Diagnostic Methods for Bladder Cancer?

Various methods are employed for the diagnosis of bladder cancer. The diagnostic process typically relies on the presence and severity of symptoms, the patient's medical history, and risk factors. Here are commonly used methods for diagnosing bladder cancer:

• Urine Tests: Tests conducted on urine samples can evaluate the presence of blood, signs of infection, or cancer cells. Detection of hematuria (bloody urine) is a significant indicator of bladder cancer.
• Imaging Tests:
  • Ultrasonography (USG): Abnormal growths or masses within the bladder are examined using sound waves.
  • Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: Three-dimensional images are obtained using X-rays to obtain detailed images.
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Detailed images are obtained using powerful magnets and radio waves.
• Cystoscopy: The inner surface of the bladder is directly examined using a thin, lighted tube called a cystoscope. This method allows the visualization of abnormal areas and tumors within the bladder.
• Biopsy: Small tissue samples are taken from suspicious areas and examined in the laboratory. Biopsy results are crucial for confirming the presence of cancer cells and determining the type of cancer.
• Intravenous Urography: By administering intravenous contrast material, X-rays are used to visualize abnormalities in the kidneys and urinary system.
• Cytology Test: A test analyzing cells under a microscope from urine samples to determine the presence of cancer cells or abnormal cells.

These diagnostic methods are used to diagnose bladder cancer and determine its stage. Based on the diagnosis, an appropriate treatment plan is developed. The patient's overall health, the stage and type of cancer, and other factors are crucial in determining treatment options. Treatment often involves surgical intervention, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy.

Looking forward to meeting you in the second part, stay healthy...

Op. Dr. Burak Yavuz Kara

Urology Specialist