Understanding Bladder Cancer
Quick Link: Find out more about Oncology Services
at OLBH.
|
E. W. Unnikrishnan,
M.D., OLBH Urologist and Chief of Surgery
|
Although there are many kinds of cancer, all types stem from an out-of-control
growth of abnormal cells. Bladder cancer begins in the bladder, the organ
that stores urine. Nationally, the incidence rate of bladder cancer is about
four times higher in men than in women, and about two times higher in whites
than in African-Americans.
While the exact cause of most bladder cancers is unknown, researchers have
identified several risk factors. Tobacco smoking is the greatest risk factor
for developing bladder cancer. Nationally, tobacco smokers experience twice
the risk of bladder cancer than do non-smokers. Smoking histories of patients
diagnosed with bladder cancer at OLBH indicate 74 percent did smoke tobacco
products.
Cancer-causing chemicals in tobacco smoke are absorbed from the lungs into
the blood stream. From the blood stream, these chemicals are filtered by
the kidneys and collect in the urine, increasing the chance of cancer developing.
People working in dye, rubber or leather industries also have a higher risk
of developing bladder cancer than other occupations.
"Bladder cancer can sometimes be detected early," E.W. Unnikrishnan, OLBH
urologist and chief of surgery, said. "Finding it early often improves the
chances that it can be successfully treated. See your physician immediately
if symptoms such as blood in the urine or an increased frequency of urination
appear. These indicators also are the symptoms of other urinary problems
and often dismissed by people as not being serious. A physician should investigate
any blood in the urine."
If the physician has reason to suspect bladder cancer may be present, various
methods available to help determine if the disease is actually present in
the body. Bladder cancer is diagnosed by the examination of cells found
in the urine, an examination of the bladder and/or a biopsy of the bladder
wall performed by a procedure known as cystoscopy. A pathologist then reviews
the specimen to determine if it is cancerous.
"In Kentucky, only 77 percent of those diagnosed with bladder cancer survive
five years," Dr. Unnikrishnan said. "However, OLBH boasts an 84 percent
five-year survival rate of those diagnosed with and treated for bladder
cancer."
For more information about bladder cancer or if you are experiencing any
symptoms, please consult your physician.
|
