When you see the word “cancer” your mind immediately flies to a future filled with chemotherapy and radiation. But what if I told you that bladder cancer is totally preventable? The statistics are quite frightening – 5 new cases of bladder cancer are diagnosed every hour in the United States alone, and the number is growing. This article will walk you through everything you need to know about this disease, as well as its warning signs that you should take seriously. Read on to find out more!
What is Bladder Cancer?
Bladder cancer is an abnormal growth of cells in the bladder. The bladder is a hollow organ in the lower abdomen that stores urine until it is excreted through urination. This cancer can form in the wall of the bladder or in the urine-collecting part of the bladder called the urothelial. Bladder cancer can start in the cells that line the inside of the bladder wall or in the muscle tissue of the bladder wall. Bladder cancer usually starts in the cells that line the inside of the bladder. It may also start in cells that produce fluids that help keep the bladder wall flexible. Bladder cancer can also occur in the muscle tissue of the bladder wall. If bladder cancer occurs in the muscle, it is more likely to grow and spread than bladder cancer in the lining. Bladder cancer can also occur in the tissue around the bladder, such as the tissue that connects the bladder to the ureters (the tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder).
Bladder Cancer Risk Factors
– Smoking. Smoking is one of the most common risk factors for bladder cancer. In fact, it is estimated that smoking increases the risk of bladder cancer by 2-5 times! Bladder cancer is almost always diagnosed in people who have smoked for at least 10 years. Bladder cancer caused by smoking usually develops in people aged 40-80 years. Bladder cancer caused by smoking is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, when the cancer has spread to nearby tissues and organs.
– Obesity Obesity is associated with an increased risk of bladder cancer, but only in smokers. Bladder cancer in nonsmokers associated with obesity may be caused by metabolic disorders, such as type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
Symptoms of Bladder Cancer
The early stages of bladder cancer usually don’t cause any visible symptoms. However, it is important to remember that bladder cancer is most often diagnosed in the later stages of the disease when it may have already spread to other parts of the body. Therefore, early detection is very important in fighting this disease! Here are some signs to watch for:
- Blood in the urine. Blood in the urine is a common symptom of bladder cancer. It may be found in your urine as red or pink lumps, or it may appear as dark or cola-colored urine. Bladder cancer can also cause bleeding in the urethra, or the urinary tract in general.
- Changes in urination: Bladder cancer can cause painful urination and other symptoms that could indicate a urinary tract infection. Changes in urination habits: If you notice a change in your urination habits (e.g., urinating more frequently), you should contact your doctor immediately. – General discomfort: Changes in bladder sensation or abdominal pain can also be a sign of bladder cancer.
How to Detect Bladder Cancer Early?
Early detection is very important in preventing the development of bladder cancer or treating it in its early stages. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the 5 most common warning signs of bladder cancer.
- Blood in the urine. If you see blood in your urine, it could be a sign of bladder cancer. It’s important to note that blood may result from a urinary tract infection or injury. Therefore, it is best to visit your doctor for a proper diagnosis!
- Urgency to urinate. If you feel like you absolutely have to pee, even if you just went to the bathroom, you should call your doctor. This could be a sign of bladder cancer.
- Changes in urination habits. If you notice a change in your urination habits (for example, urinating more frequently), you should call your doctor immediately.
- General discomfort. Changes in bladder sensation or abdominal pain can also be a sign of bladder cancer.
- If you have a family history of bladder cancer, if you are a heavy smoker or if you have diabetes, you should be extra careful. You should see your doctor frequently and have regular self-examinations to check for potential signs of bladder cancer.
Conclusion
Bladder cancer is a serious illness that requires immediate medical attention. It is important to know the warning signs of bladder cancer and to see a doctor regularly. Early detection is very important in preventing the development of this disease and treating it in its early stages. These 5 bladder cancer warning signs you shouldn’t ignore and watch out for. Remember, prevention is the best medicine!