Important Facts Concerning Bladder Cancer

Cancer is among the leading chronic conditions worldwide. It occurs when the body cells divide uncontrollably. Abnormal cell divisions then spread to the neighboring tissues and eventually form a growth. The mention of cancer can make you think that it is a sole condition. However, the reality is that there are different types of cancer depending on the affected body areas. For instance, phoenix genitourinary cancer develops in the human urinary organs, such as the bladder. In this article, we will explore important facts concerning bladder cancer.

Symptoms in Women May Be Overlooked

Bladder cancers have many symptoms. Blood in the urine is the main symptom of this type of cancer. However, many women underrate this symptom thinking that it is menstrual blood.

Urgent urination is another symptom that many women mistake for. Most women assume urinary tract infections are the only cause of frequent and urgent urination. This tendency to underrate the warning signs can delay the diagnosis.

Bladder Cancer Is More Common in Men

Men are almost four times more likely to develop this genitourinary cancer than women. This instance makes this condition the fourth most common cancer among men. Most research shows that at least one in every twenty-six males will encounter bladder cancer in their lifetime.

Nevertheless, women can also experience this debilitating condition. In fact, most women realize advanced bladder cancer at the time of diagnosis. The progression of bladder cancer among women occurs as they overlook the early symptoms.

Smoking Is the Main Risk Factor

You may think smoking only harms the respiratory system, but that is not the case. Many years of smoking can expose you to bladder cancer. Cigarette chemicals usually get into your bloodstream and flow to the kidneys.

Your kidney will then filter these toxins into your urine. Within your bladder, these chemicals can cause bladder thinning. Over time, this instance will cause bladder cancer.

There Is No Routine Screening

Do you know that bladder cancer does not have routine exams? Many people do not undergo testing for bladder cancer. However, you should consider screening if you have symptoms insinuating this condition.

Besides, your healthcare provider can recommend tests if you have exposure to chemicals. Some pesticides can induce DNA damage in urothelial cells that can cause bladder cancer. To reduce this risk, you should consider frequent tests.

Bladder Cancer Patients Are Predisposed to Other Cancers

Many bladder cancer survivors develop other types of cancer. These second cancers do not necessarily relate to bladder cancer. Acute myeloid leukemia and lung and voice box cancer are examples of second cancer.

Smoking is the risk factor for many of these other cancers. Having second cancer while living with bladder cancer can affect the quality of life. Therefore, if you are a smoker, you should consider quitting this habit.

When discussing genitourinary cancers, you cannot omit bladder cancer. This condition sets in after the unusual division of cells within the bladder. Cigarette smoking is among the major risk factors of this chronic health concern. Although men are more susceptible to bladder cancer, this health concern can also develop in women. Therefore, every person should take the necessary initiatives to prevent bladder cancer. Nonetheless, if you have frequent and urgent urination symptoms, you should never overlook them. Seek correct diagnosis and treatment options for bladder cancer.