Bladder cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the bladder, also known as the urinary bladder, and usually originates from the cells lining its inner surface. It is more common in men than women and occurs more frequently in older individuals. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment. Healme Clinic provides comprehensive healthcare services for bladder cancer with advanced technology, a multidisciplinary team, and personalized treatment approaches.
The bladder is a muscular organ located in the lower abdomen that stores urine coming from the kidneys. It typically has a capacity of 400–600 ml. It connects to the kidneys via the ureters and to the external environment via the urethra.
The bladder’s primary role is to store urine and release it through proper muscular contractions during urination. The coordinated function of the nervous system, muscular structure, and the integrity of the bladder wall are essential for this process.
Bladder cancer arises from the uncontrolled and abnormal proliferation of urothelial cells lining the bladder. The most common type is urothelial carcinoma. Less common types include squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. Cancer cells may remain confined to the surface or may invade the deeper layers of the bladder wall and surrounding tissues over time.
Hundreds of thousands of new bladder cancer cases are diagnosed worldwide each year. It is especially prevalent in men over the age of 60. Although rarer in women, delayed diagnosis can result in a poorer prognosis. In Turkey, a similar trend is observed, and high smoking rates are a major risk factor. Healme Clinic contributes to early detection with modern imaging and diagnostic techniques.
Smoking is the leading cause of bladder cancer. Smokers are 3–4 times more likely to develop bladder cancer than non-smokers. Harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke are filtered through the kidneys and excreted in urine, where they exert a toxic effect on the bladder lining.
Exposure to certain industrial chemicals (such as aromatic amines used in the dye, rubber, textile, and leather industries) increases the risk of bladder cancer.
Long-standing bladder infections, presence of bladder stones, or chronic irritation can lead to the development of certain rare cancer types.
Radiotherapy to the pelvic area and certain chemotherapy drugs (e.g., cyclophosphamide) can increase the risk of bladder cancer years later.
While bladder cancer is not typically inherited, individuals with a family history of the disease may have a higher risk.
This is the most common symptom of bladder cancer. It is usually painless and may present as pink, red, or dark brown urine. Sometimes, it is only detectable microscopically.
Increased urinary frequency, urgency, and burning sensations during urination may occur.
In advanced stages, symptoms may include weak urine flow, pelvic or lower back pain.
In later stages, symptoms like weight loss, fatigue, loss of appetite, and anemia may develop.
Urine is examined for blood and cancer cells. Cytology is especially useful in detecting high-grade tumors.
This is the most important diagnostic method. A thin camera is inserted into the bladder to visually examine for tumors. A biopsy may be taken if needed.
Ultrasound, CT (Computed Tomography), and MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) help assess tumor size, spread, and relation to surrounding tissues.
Some molecular tests detect tumor-specific biomarkers in urine. Healme Clinic incorporates these modern tests into clinical practice to provide more accurate and earlier diagnoses.
The tumor is confined to the superficial layers of the bladder wall. The success rate of treatment is high at this stage.
The tumor has invaded the muscle layer. More aggressive treatments are generally required.
Cancer has spread to lymph nodes or distant organs such as the lungs, liver, or bones. Systemic treatment approaches are prioritized.
This is the endoscopic removal of superficial tumors, performed for both diagnosis and treatment.
After TURBT, medications (such as BCG or chemotherapy agents) are directly instilled into the bladder to reduce the risk of recurrence.
Complete removal of the bladder, usually recommended for muscle-invasive cancers. The prostate in men and the uterus and anterior vaginal wall in women may also be removed.
After bladder removal, alternate routes (such as ileal loop or neobladder) are created to allow urine to exit the body.
In selected patients, bladder-preserving radiotherapy combined with chemotherapy may be considered.
Systemic chemotherapy is used especially in advanced stages or post-surgery.
Immunotherapies have made significant progress in recent years. Healme Clinic offers immunological treatment options to eligible patients.
Smoking cessation is the most effective preventive measure.
Individuals exposed to industrial chemicals should use protective equipment.
Regular cystoscopy and screenings are crucial for early detection, especially in high-risk individuals.
A diet rich in antioxidants, adequate fluid intake, and physical activity can contribute to prevention.
For individuals diagnosed with bladder cancer, psychological support, nutritional counseling, and quality-of-life interventions are essential. Healme Clinic not only provides treatment but also supports its patients with psychosocial programs and personalized health coaching to promote holistic well-being.
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