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June 28, 2019
Bladder Cancer Treatment and Surgery India | Surgery Tours India
What is Bladder Cancer?
Bladder cancer refers to any of several types of malignant growths of the urinary bladder. It is a disease in which abnormal cells multiply without control in the bladder. The bladder is a hollow, muscular organ that stores urine; it is located in the pelvis. The most common type of bladder cancer begins in cells lining the inside of the bladder and is called transitional cell carcinoma (sometimes urothelial cell carcinoma). Most bladder cancers are transitional cell carcinomas (cancer that begins in cells that normally make up the inner lining of the bladder).
What are the Causes of Bladder Cancer?
We do not know exactly what causes bladder cancer; however, a number of carcinogens have been identified that are potential causes, especially in cigarette smoke. Research is focusing on conditions that alter the genetic structure of cells, causing abnormal cell reproduction. We do know that the following factors increase a person's risk of developing a bladder cancer:
- Smoking: Smoking is the single greatest risk factor for bladder cancer. Smokers have more than twice the risk of developing bladder cancer as nonsmokers.
- Chemical exposures at work: People who regularly work with certain chemicals or in certain industries have a greater risk of bladder cancer. Organic chemicals called aromatic amines present in dye industry are particularly linked with bladder cancer. Other industries prone to this include rubber and leather processing, textiles, hair coloring, paints, and printing.
- Diet: People whose diets include large amounts of fried meats and animal fats are thought to be at higher risk of bladder cancer.
- Aristolochia Fangchi: This herb is used in some dietary supplements and Chinese herbal remedies. People who took this herb as part of a weight loss program had higher rates of bladder cancer and kidney failure than the general population. Scientific studies on this herb have shown that it contains chemicals that can cause cancer in rats.
What are the Symptoms of Bladder Cancer?
A symptom is something the patient feels or reports, while a sign is something other people, including a doctor, may detect. For example, pain may be a symptom while a rash could be a sign. The most common signs and symptoms are:
- Hematuria: Blood in urine (by far the most common symptom). It may appear Coca-Cola colored, or bright red in the urine. It could also appear in a microscopic examination of the urine.
- More frequent urinations than usual
- Urinary tract infection
- Sudden urges to urinate
- Pain when urinating; usually a burning sensation
The patient may also experience the following symptoms, but they are less common:
- Pain in the pelvis
- Back pain
- Bone pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Swelling of the legs
