Treatment for bladder cancer can vary based on the stage of the cancer, the symptoms, and the overall health of the patient. In general, the earlier it is detected, the better the chances of successful treatment. Stage IV tumors, for example, can’t be cured, but they can often be controlled with surgery. Before the procedure, chemotherapy will most likely be given, either before or after the surgery. Chemotherapy will usually be given directly into the bloodstream, and can be effective for early-stage bladder cancer, too.
Tobacco smoke contains carcinogens that can enter the bladder lining. Smokers are more likely to develop bladder cancer than nonsmokers. Genetics may also play a role, as smokers are three times more likely to develop the disease. Workers exposed to aromatic amines in the dye industry are at an increased risk. In addition, drinking contaminated water may also be a contributing factor, especially water that contains naturally high levels of arsenic.
Treatment for bladder cancer depends on its stage and location. The earliest stage of cancer is called superficial bladder cancer, while the last stage is known as invasive bladder tumor. If the cancer is detected early, the chances of survival are high – as many as 85% of patients live five years after diagnosis. Surgery and immunotherapy are common treatments for superficial bladder cancers, though chemotherapy may be used in more advanced stages. In some cases, bladder cancer has spread to the prostate, womb, or vagina.
The most common type of bladder cancer is non-muscle invasive, and it is the most common type. Muscle invasive bladder cancer spreads outside of the bladder into the muscles surrounding the bladder, making it much more difficult to treat. The cancer can spread to the lymph nodes, bones, and other organs of the body, which is known as metastasis. Invasive bladder cancer requires more invasive treatments, including removal of the bladder.
If the cancer is found, follow-up appointments should be scheduled for five years. If the disease recurs after treatment, it is likely to return. Some patients may continue fighting the cancer for years. Follow-up appointments may be offered every five to ten years. During this time, the patient will undergo regular cystoscopy sessions to monitor the cancer’s progress. If the cancer returns, the patient will be referred to a specialist urology team for treatment.
Testing for bladder cancer is easy and can be done at the doctor’s office or a hospital. In some cases, it’s possible to treat the cancer at home and avoid surgery entirely. However, the best way to determine whether or not bladder cancer has spread is to have a biopsy performed. The doctor will determine the stage of the cancer and how extensive the tumor has spread. This process may take several sessions, so it’s important to seek medical advice at the earliest opportunity.
External radiation therapy involves a machine that is external to the body and delivers a focused beam of radiation directly to the cancer. Newer treatments use computer-guided radiation that targets only the cancer cells, and limit the amount of radiation that affects surrounding tissues and organs. External radiation can cause side effects including fatigue, swollen soft tissues, and skin irritation. Internal radiation therapy involves inserting a radioactive pellet into the bladder. This requires a hospital stay and a few days for the treatment to take effect.
