Bladder cancer is a fairly common type of cancer that is most often found in the lining of the bladder. Inland Empire patients should recognize that bladder cancer typically forms in older adult patients, but it can occur at any point during a person’s life.
Rancho Mirage patients who visit their urology specialist on a regular basis will find that they have a better chance at detecting bladder cancer early because of the early detection screenings that are performed as well as the regular exams that take place during office visits. All patients should understand what puts them at risk for developing bladder cancer and what complications can arise from bladder cancer.
What Factors Increase My Risk of Developing Bladder Cancer?
- People who smoke put themselves at a greater risk for developing bladder cancer, because the chemicals that are present in cigarettes will build up in their urine over time.
- People who are older than the age of 40 are at a higher risk of developing bladder cancer than younger patients.
- White men are considered at a higher risk of developing bladder cancer than women and people of other races.
- Chemical exposure over long periods of time can lead to the development of bladder cancer. Common chemicals that have been linked to bladder cancer include those that are used to manufacture leather, paint and textiles, as well as arsenic.
- People who suffer from chronic bladder inflammation are at a higher risk of developing bladder cancer.
- People who have a family history of bladder cancer are considered high-risk for this type of cancer.
What Complications are Associated with Bladder Cancer?
While bladder cancer can be easily treated if it is detected early, it is known for being a recurring cancer. Most patients have to go for regular follow-up tests to ensure that cancer is not developing again.
Some follow-up tests include a cystoscopy, which examines the inside of the urethra and the bladder, and various other tests depending on how aggressive the cancer was that developed in your bladder originally.
It should be noted that those with less aggressive forms of cancer will not have to be screened as often.
Patients who are informed about bladder cancer and understand their own personal risk factors have a better chance of detecting this type of cancer early and getting the treatment that they need. Bladder cancer is fairly common, but when it is detected early it is also easily treated.
If you are concerned that you have some of the symptoms of bladder cancer or you feel you are at risk for developing this disease, make it a point to make an appointment with a urology expert.
You will be able to discuss your concerns and have your questions answered. At the same time, the doctor will perform routine exams and cancer screenings in order to determine if you do have cancerous cells in your bladder. The first step is getting the information you need, and then you can work toward developing a treatment plan that works for you.
