4 Things to Know About Bladder Cancer
Author：[本站]Date：2018-04-25 17:34:17
As a urologist in practice for more than two decades, I frequently encounter patients who aren't entirely clear on the function of every "down there" organ. The bladder is one of them. Contrary to popular belief, the bladder is not responsible for the production of urine (that's the kidneys' job). Rather, this hollow organ is simply the storage unit for urinary waste. In fact, the bladder can hold about two to three cups of urine at any given time. The bladder itself is comprised of four distinct tissue layers that are comprised of different cell types. And like any other organ in the body, the tissues of the bladder can be susceptible to cancer development. Though it's not as frequently discussed as prostate cancer for example, it's still an important one to understand, especially as it relates to ways you can help prevent it developing in the first place. Here's what to know:
There is a common 'type.'
Transitional cell (urothelial) carcinoma is the most common type of bladder cancer, accounting for up to 95 percent of diagnosed cases. Transitional cell carcinomas are then further divided into two subtypes: papillary carcinomas or flat carcinomas.
Papillary carcinomas tend to grow out and away from the inner surface of the bladder in finger-like projections toward the hollow center of the bladder.
Flat carcinomas, on the other hand, don't grow toward the center of the bladder and instead lay flat against the bladder tissue.
In either case, the two important traits in determining the prognosis for this type of cancer are whether it is invasive or non-invasive and what the grade of the tumor is. Non-invasive tumors are usually easier to treat and have a better prognosis. Invasive tumors on the other hand are more likely to spread and are harder to treat. The grading of tumors is based on how abnormal the cancer cells look under a microscope. The more normal looking they are, the lower the grade of cancer. Low-grade cancers tend to grow more slowly and have better outcomes than those of higher grades.
Because this bladder cancer sub-type tends to grow away from the other layers of the bladder, the tumors are called non-invasive papillary cancers and tend to have more favorable outcomes after treatment.
This is usually the first visible symptom.
If there ever could be "good news" about any type of cancer, there's a bit when it comes to bladder cancer. In a majority of cases, blood in the urine is the first and earliest sign of bladder cancer for most patients. It's one of those symptoms that's hard to overlook and should never, ever be ignored. Of course, this isn't to say that blood in the urine is always a sign of cancer. It isn't. It's simply one of those very obvious "red flags" (pun intended) that you should have checked out by your doctor right away. Blood in the urine often presents before there's any pain or any other symptoms to speak of. So, if you or someone you know is experiencing this, even if it isn't during every urination, heed your body's warning and have it checked out immediately.
It occurs more frequently in men.
Men are up to three times more likely to develop this type of cancer than women. I point this out with purpose. Historically speaking, men are also often less likely to seek out health care than women. That's not a good combination. Regardless of gender, we all should be diligent when it comes to our health care. Gentlemen, make sure you're getting those routine physicals. Make sure you're paying attention to your body – are you noticing symptoms (like blood in your urine) or pain while urinating or any other type of pelvic discomfort? These are bladder cancer symptoms that should be evaluated by a medical professional.
This risk factor is preventable.
The No. 1 most preventable risk factor for the development of bladder cancer is smoking. And that doesn't just mean cigarettes. Cigars and pipes carry the same risks because this type of behavior causes harmful chemicals to build up in the urine, which is stored in the bladder. As these harmful chemicals accumulate, they can cause damage to the lining of the bladder, making it more susceptible to the development of cancer. If you smoke, quitting now has a variety of health benefits beyond the reduction of your cancer risk. There are several resources to help, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Quitline service – 1-800-784-8669 – if you want some assistance kicking the habit for good.
Although our hereditary contributions and other genetic factors can't fully eliminate our risk of developing bladder cancer, there is plenty we can do to reduce that risk. A healthy diet, regular exercise and eliminating risky behaviors are among them. It's also important to pay attention to what our bodies are telling us when something is wrong – and then acting on it by getting help from qualified medical professionals. While we don't have complete control, we do have some, and we should exercise it.
WeChat
WeChat
© 2017 Henan Forever Medical CO.,LTD
Chinese
English