Can bladder cancer be passed down from parents? Yes, but there are many risk factors associated with the disease. Some of these factors cannot be changed, while others are inherited and increase the risk of developing the condition. Identifying these risk factors early is essential for avoiding the occurrence of bladder cancer. Here are some of the main risk factors associated with bladder cancer. Knowing them can help you determine if they’re a contributing factor.
The letters “N” stand for nodes, which are groups of immune system cells that surround the bladder. This cancer first affects the lymph nodes closest to the bladder. The letter “M” stands for metastasized, meaning it has spread to other parts of the body. The American Cancer Society provides a breakdown of the TNM system. The letters after T give more details about cancer progression. The CUA is another group that has formed guidelines for bladder cancer.
The American Academy of Family Physicians advises patients to seek medical advice for early detection of bladder cancer. Although the disease is treatable, it is also important for women to understand the risks associated with it. The majority of cases of bladder cancer are diagnosed at an advanced stage, causing more unfavorable outcomes. In addition, men typically receive cystoscopy earlier and begin treatment earlier than women, resulting in earlier diagnosis and treatment.
If cancer cells are detected early, treatment may include chemotherapy or radiation. Systemic or intravenous chemotherapy destroys cancer cells through the circulation of intravenous drugs. Systemic chemotherapy is usually used after radical cystectomy operations or for metastasized cancer. Intravesical chemotherapy is another option to shrink the tumor before surgery. Intravesical chemotherapy, which is delivered through the urethra, is administered before surgery. The treatment of muscle-invasive cancer requires additional chemotherapy.
If a woman experiences painless bleeding in the urine, she should see a doctor right away. While primary care physicians and gynecologists follow their own guidelines, they are often unable to diagnose bladder cancer. Urologists are the medical professionals who can diagnose this disease. A woman suffering from blood in the urine should not ignore these symptoms. Their doctor should monitor any bleeding and take steps to correct the problem. They may also need to undergo surgery.
Various tests will be necessary to diagnose bladder cancer. The type of bladder cancer will depend on where the cancer starts, and where it spreads. A tumor in the bladder will be classified as a squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma. The latter type of cancer may be a result of long-term inflammation in the bladder. Sarcoma, however, is much rarer. It starts in muscle fibers and can spread to nearby lymph nodes, bones, or the liver.
When a patient first develops bladder cancer, the doctor will evaluate their symptoms and determine if there is a tumor. Oftentimes, it is discovered through a routine check. A skilled urologist will examine a patient’s bladder for tumors, abdominal bloating, and enlarged lymph nodes. Urinalysis is an important laboratory test to identify cancer cells and tumor markers. If cancer cells are found in urine, a biopsy of the affected area is necessary.
