Bladder
cancer is the most common site for cancer to develop
in the urinary system. Incidence of bladder cancer
is rising. In the USA it ranks #5 in men and #10
in women. More than 60,000 new cases will be diagnosed
this year. If diagnosed early the 5-year survival
rate is almost 90%.
Symptoms
Blood in the urine is usually the first sign of
bladder cancer. It is not always visible and may
be detected by microscopic examination of the
urine.
Smoking is the most common factor
associated with bladder cancer. Workers exposed
to certain dyes and chemicals are at increased
risk. Large doses of the artificial sweeteners
(for example, saccharin and cyclamates) may increase
the chance of bladder cancer.
Predispoding factors
The diagnosis is made by a combination of x-rays
and cystoscopy. Treatment is dependent upon the
grade, or aggressiveness of the cancer and the
stage, or the size and location.
Unfortunately, there are no
good routine screening tests for bladder cancer.
Any unexplained bleeding in the urinary system
must be fully investigated.
Information obtained
from the American Cancer Society and the Akron
General McDowell Cancer Center follows the NCCN
guidelines.
