What is Bladder Cancer?
Bladder cancer primarily affects the cells lining the inside of the bladder, the balloon-like organ in the lower abdomen that stores urine. This type of cancer is relatively common and can vary significantly in its behavior, ranging from slow-growing tumors that may not need immediate treatment to aggressive cancers that can spread quickly.
There are several types of bladder cancer. The most common is urothelial carcinoma, also called transitional cell carcinoma or TCC, which starts in the cells lining the bladder. Other less common types include squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma.
Bladder cancer has several risk factors associated with an increased likelihood of developing the disease, including:
- Smoking: This is the greatest risk factor. Smokers are at least three times as likely to get bladder cancer as non-smokers.
- Occupational Exposure: Exposure to certain industrial chemicals is linked to bladder cancer. Industries that pose higher risks include rubber, leather, textiles, paint manufacturing, and printing.
- Age: Bladder cancer primarily affects older adults, typically those over the age of 55.
- Gender: Men are about three to four times more likely to develop bladder cancer than women.
- Race: White individuals have a higher risk of developing bladder cancer than individuals of other races.
- Chronic Bladder Inflammation: Chronic or repeated urinary infections or inflammations might increase your risk of squamous cell bladder cancer.
- Personal or Family History of Cancer: If you've had bladder cancer before, you're more likely to get it again. A family history of bladder cancer also increases risk.
- Certain Medications and Supplements: Some research has linked the use of the diabetes medication pioglitazone (Actos) and a previous diet supplement containing aristolochic acid to an increased risk of bladder cancer.
- Radiation Exposure: Previous radiation treatment for cancer in the pelvic area can increase the risk of bladder cancer.
These risk factors do not guarantee that someone will get bladder cancer, but they do increase the likelihood. It's important for those who have these risk factors to discuss them with their healthcare provider, who may suggest more frequent screening or other preventive measures.
Early detection and treatment are not just important; they are critical. The stage and grade of the cancer determine the course of treatment, which may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or immunotherapy. By prioritizing regular check-ups and prompt medical attention, the GW Cancer Center Urological Cancer team can significantly improve the prognosis and survival of bladder cancer.