Category: Bladder Health

Overactive bladder (OAB) is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Characterised by a sudden, uncontrollable urge to urinate and frequent urination, this condition can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life. OAB occurs when the bladder muscles involuntarily contract, even when the bladder’s urine volume is low.

Understanding OAB is essential for managing symptoms and improving overall well-being. Despite the challenges it presents, numerous treatment options exist that can help manage the symptoms and reduce the impact of OAB on one’s life.

Non-Pharmacological Treatment Options

Non-pharmacological treatments for overactive bladder (OAB) focus on behavioural therapies and lifestyle modifications designed to manage symptoms without the use of medications. These options, recommended first due to their effectiveness and minimal side effects, include:

• Bladder Training: Gradually extending the time between toilet visits to enhance bladder capacity and control over urination urges.
• Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercises (Kegel Exercises): Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles to support the bladder and urethra, which can improve urinary control. Regular practice can significantly reduce the urgency and frequency of urination.
• Fluid Management: Adjusting fluid intake not only ensures adequate hydration but also avoids exacerbating symptoms by limiting intake at certain times and avoiding irritants like caffeine and alcohol, which increase urine production and irritate the bladder.
• Biofeedback: Involves using monitoring devices that help patients understand their bodily reactions and control bladder muscles effectively. This aids in performing pelvic floor exercises more accurately, improving bladder control.

Pharmacological Treatment Options

Pharmacological treatments for OAB involve the use of medications that aim to reduce the symptoms of urgency, frequency, and involuntary leakage. The most commonly prescribed medications include:

• Antimuscarinics: These drugs, such as oxybutynin, tolterodine, and solifenacin, work by blocking the muscarinic receptors in the bladder, reducing the bladder’s ability to contract involuntarily. They effectively manage symptoms but may have side effects like dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision.
• Beta-3 agonists: A newer class of medication, represented mainly by mirabegron, stimulates the beta-3 adrenergic receptor, causing relaxation of the bladder muscle and increasing storage capacity. This medication is generally well-tolerated and can be used as an alternative or in addition to antimuscarinics.
• Combination Therapy: For some patients, combining antimuscarinics and beta-3 agonists may be more effective than either treatment alone. This approach can help manage more severe symptoms of OAB.
• Topical Treatments: Oxybutynin also comes in a topical gel or patch form, which can reduce systemic side effects by delivering the medication directly through the skin.

Before starting any medication, it is important to discuss with a urologist the potential benefits and risks and any possible interactions with other medications being taken.

Surgical Interventions

Surgical options for treating OAB are considered when symptoms are severe and have not responded to non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments. These procedures aim to improve bladder storage and reduce symptoms of urgency and frequency. Common surgical interventions include:

• Sacral Neuromodulation (SNM): This involves the implantation of a device that sends electrical impulses to the sacral nerves, which influence the bladder’s behaviour. SNM is effective for those who have not benefited from other treatments and can significantly improve their quality of life.
• Botulinum Toxin Injections (Botox): Injecting botulinum toxin into the bladder muscle can help relax the muscle and increase bladder capacity. The effects are temporary, typically lasting between six and nine months, and require repeated treatments for ongoing symptom control.
• Bladder Augmentation: This surgical procedure involves enlarging the bladder using a piece of the patient’s intestine. It is a more invasive option and is generally reserved for severe cases where other treatments have failed.
• Urethral Injections: Materials are injected into the urethra to help improve closure and reduce leakage. This method is often used for patients experiencing significant stress incontinence alongside OAB.

Lifestyle Adjustments and Home Remedies

Lifestyle adjustments and home remedies play a crucial role in managing OAB symptoms. These interventions can complement medical treatments or serve as initial steps towards symptom relief. Key lifestyle changes include:

• Dietary Adjustments: Avoiding foods and beverages that irritate the bladder can help reduce symptoms. Common irritants include caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, and acidic fruits. Instead, focus on a balanced diet with plenty of water to maintain hydration.
• Weight Management: Excess body weight can increase pressure on the bladder and exacerbate OAB symptoms. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can significantly reduce the frequency and urgency of urination.
• Smoking Cessation: Smoking is a risk factor for many bladder problems, including OAB. Quitting smoking can improve overall bladder health and reduce symptoms.
• Timed Voiding: Setting a schedule for urination can help train the bladder and reduce the frequency of urges. This method involves going to the bathroom at set times gradually increasing the interval between bathroom visits.
• Stress Management: Stress can exacerbate OAB symptoms. Techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can help manage stress levels and potentially reduce symptom severity.

These lifestyle modifications support medical treatments and enhance overall health and well-being. Making these changes can be a proactive way to manage OAB symptoms and improve quality of life.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Recognising when to seek medical advice is crucial for effectively managing overactive bladder (OAB). While many people may find relief through lifestyle changes or over-the-counter treatments, certain situations require professional medical intervention. Consider consulting a urologist if you experience:

• Persistent Symptoms: If symptoms of urgency, frequency, and involuntary leakage persist despite trying non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments, it may be time to discuss more advanced options with your urologist.
• Impact on Daily Life: When OAB symptoms significantly interfere with daily activities, social interactions, or sleep patterns, professional advice can help tailor treatments to improve your quality of life.
• Signs of Infection or Other Complications: Symptoms such as pain during urination, blood in the urine, or severe discomfort may indicate infections or other underlying conditions that need immediate medical attention.
• Unsure About Treatments: If you are still determining how to start treatment, what treatments are suitable, or how to manage side effects, a urologist can provide guidance and support.

Conclusion

OAB is a manageable condition with a range of treatment options designed to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. From non-pharmacological strategies and lifestyle adjustments to pharmacological treatments and surgical interventions, people have multiple avenues to explore based on the severity of their symptoms and lifestyle preferences. Engaging with a urologist to discuss and tailor a treatment plan is important, as they can provide valuable insights and adjustments based on people’s needs.

Understanding Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer originates in the tissues of the bladder, an organ responsible for storing urine. It is characterised by the growth of abnormal cells in the bladder lining, which can multiply uncontrollably and form tumours.  Globally, bladder cancer ranks among the top ten most common cancers, with higher incidence rates in older populations and men. Understanding its symptoms and risk factors can help lead to early detection and prompt treatment, influencing treatment outcomes and overall quality of life.

Blood in Urine

The presence of blood in urine, medically termed hematuria, is often the earliest sign of bladder cancer. Hematuria can manifest in two forms: visible blood in urine (gross hematuria) which is noticeable to the naked eye, or microscopic hematuria, detectable only under a microscope during a urine test.  While blood in urine does not always indicate bladder cancer, its occurrence warrants prompt medical evaluation. Persistent or intermittent hematuria, regardless of the amount, necessitates a thorough investigation to rule out bladder cancer or other serious urological conditions.

Changes in Urinary Habits and Function

Changes in urinary habits and function can be indicative of bladder cancer. Individuals may experience increased frequency of urination, a persistent urge to urinate, or difficulty in urinating. These symptoms are often mistaken for urinary tract infections or bladder irritations. In addition to these changes, some patients might also encounter a burning sensation during urination or a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying.  These symptoms are not exclusive to bladder cancer and can be associated with various other benign urological conditions. Consult your urologist when experiencing them, especially in conjunction with other warning signs.

Pain and Discomfort

Pain and discomfort in the pelvic region or lower back can be indicators of advanced bladder cancer. This pain or discomfort is typically continuous and can range from mild to severe. In some cases, individuals may also experience pain or a burning sensation during urination. These symptoms are often more pronounced as the cancer progresses.  Pain and discomfort are also common in various other conditions. A medical evaluation can help determine the underlying cause, and ensure timely and appropriate treatment.

Unexplained Weight Loss and Fatigue

Unexplained weight loss and persistent fatigue are symptoms that may be associated with advanced stages of bladder cancer. Weight loss in this context is not linked to dieting or exercise. Fatigue experienced by individuals with bladder cancer is often profound and not relieved by rest. These symptoms occur as the body’s resources are increasingly diverted towards fighting the cancer. Weight loss and fatigue might be accompanied by a general decline in health, including loss of appetite and a feeling of weakness.  While these symptoms can be indicative of a variety of health issues beyond bladder cancer, their occurrence should prompt an immediate medical consultation.

Risk Factors for Bladder Cancer

Recognising the risk factors enables individuals to identify and potentially prevent bladder cancer in their daily lives.

Smoking

Smoking is the primary risk factor for bladder cancer. Chemicals in tobacco smoke are absorbed into the bloodstream and eventually filtered through the kidneys into the urine. These carcinogens can damage the lining of the bladder, increasing the risk of cancer. Smokers are at least three times more likely to develop bladder cancer than non-smokers.

Occupational Exposure to Chemicals

Certain occupations, particularly those involving exposure to industrial chemicals, are associated with a higher risk of bladder cancer. Workers in industries like dye manufacturing, rubber, leather, textiles, and painting, where exposure to aromatic amines and other harmful chemicals is common, are particularly at risk.

Age, Gender, and Ethnicity

Bladder cancer predominantly affects older individuals, typically those over the age of 55. Men are more likely to develop bladder cancer than women. Additionally, certain ethnicities, particularly Caucasians, are at a higher risk compared to other ethnic groups.

Personal or Family History

Individuals with a personal history of bladder cancer have a higher risk of recurrence. Additionally, a family history of bladder cancer can increase a person’s risk, suggesting a possible genetic component.

Chronic Bladder Inflammation

Chronic bladder conditions, such as recurrent urinary tract infections, bladder stones, and bladder irritations, can lead to prolonged inflammation, which may increase the risk of bladder cancer.

Previous Cancer Treatments

Certain treatments for other cancers, like the chemotherapy drug cyclophosphamide and radiation therapy targeting the pelvic area, can increase the risk of developing bladder cancer.

Lifestyle Factors

Factors such as a diet high in processed meats and low in fruits and vegetables, physical inactivity, and obesity may contribute to an increased risk of bladder cancer, although the direct connections are less clear than other risk factors. Avoiding certain foods and keeping an active lifestyle may still help reduce the overall risk.

Importance of Early Detection

Early detection of bladder cancer can help enhance treatment efficacy and improve patient outcomes. When identified at an early stage, bladder cancer is often more responsive to treatment and potentially curable. This necessitates a heightened awareness of the symptoms associated with bladder cancer, such as blood in the urine, changes in urinary habits, and unexplained pain. Immediate medical consultation upon noticing these symptoms can facilitate early diagnosis. Regular medical check-ups are necessary, especially for individuals with known risk factors like smoking or occupational exposure to hazardous chemicals. These check-ups may include urine tests that can detect early signs of bladder cancer. Those at higher risk, such as individuals with a history of the disease or exposure to risk factors, may want to get screened more frequently.

Conclusion

Bladder cancer, though a serious health condition, can be effectively managed, especially when detected early. Awareness of the signs and symptoms and understanding the risk factors can lead to timely medical intervention to effectively fight against this disease.  Individuals are encouraged to engage in proactive health management, including regular medical check-ups and lifestyle modifications, to mitigate the risks. The collective efforts of urologists and patients in recognizing early warning signs and pursuing prompt medical help can improve outcomes.

What is Bladder Incontinence

Bladder incontinence, commonly known as urinary incontinence, is a condition characterised by the involuntary loss of urine. The bladder, a muscular sac in the lower abdomen, stores urine from the kidneys before it is excreted from the body. When functioning normally, the bladder’s muscles tighten to hold urine and relax to release it. In cases of bladder incontinence, these muscle actions do not work as they should, leading to unintended urine leakage. This condition can vary in severity, ranging from occasional minor leaks to regular, uncontrollable wetting. It is not just a medical issue but can also have social and psychological impacts on individuals, affecting their quality of life and daily activities. Recognising the common causes of this condition can aid in its prevention, as well as facilitate early detection and treatment.

Physical Causes of Bladder Incontinence

The physical causes of bladder incontinence are diverse, often involving issues with the bladder’s muscles or nerves.

Muscle Weakness

The weakening of pelvic floor muscles and the urethral sphincter, which can result from childbirth, surgery, or ageing, is a common cause, particularly in stress incontinence.

Nerve Damage

Conditions that damage the nerves, such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, or spinal injuries, can disrupt the signals between the bladder and the brain, leading to incontinence.

Prostate Issues in Men

An enlarged prostate or prostate surgery can contribute to incontinence, particularly in causing overflow incontinence.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Infections can irritate the bladder, causing strong urges to urinate and sometimes incontinence.

Bladder Stones or Tumors

These can block the outflow of urine or irritate the bladder, leading to overflow or urge incontinence.

Constipation

Chronic constipation can exert pressure on the bladder, exacerbating incontinence.

Lifestyle and Environmental Factors

Lifestyle choices and environmental factors can influence the occurrence and severity of bladder incontinence.

Diet and Fluid Intake

Consuming large quantities of fluids, especially those that act as diuretics like caffeine and alcohol, can exacerbate symptoms. Conversely, inadequate fluid intake can lead to concentrated urine, which can irritate the bladder.

Obesity

Excess weight increases pressure on the bladder and surrounding muscles, which can lead to stress incontinence.

Smoking

Tobacco use can cause chronic coughing, leading to increased stress on pelvic floor muscles and contributing to stress incontinence.

Physical Activity

Regular physical activity can strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor, reducing the risk of incontinence, while a sedentary lifestyle may increase it.

Medications

Certain medications, such as diuretics, sedatives, and muscle relaxants, can affect bladder control.

Occupational and Daily Habits

Jobs or activities that involve heavy lifting or high impact can stress the pelvic floor muscles. Long periods of sitting can also weaken these muscles.

Psychological and Neurological Influences

The interplay between psychological and neurological factors can impact bladder function and incontinence.

Stress and Anxiety

Psychological stress can exacerbate symptoms of bladder incontinence, particularly urge incontinence, by affecting bladder control mechanisms.

Neurological Disorders

Conditions affecting the nervous system, such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis, can disrupt the normal nerve signals involved in bladder control, leading to incontinence.

Cognitive Decline

Dementia and other forms of cognitive decline can impair the ability to recognise and respond to the need to urinate, resulting in functional incontinence.

Depression

There is an observed correlation between depression and urinary incontinence. The relationship is complex and can be bidirectional, where each condition potentially exacerbates the other.

Childhood Bedwetting History

A history of bedwetting in childhood may be associated with a higher risk of developing incontinence in later life, possibly due to long-standing issues with bladder control.

Age-Related Changes and Bladder Incontinence

Age-related changes in the body can impact bladder function, often leading to incontinence.

Bladder Capacity Changes

The bladder’s capacity to hold urine may decrease with age, leading to a need for more frequent urination and an increased risk of incontinence.

Hormonal Changes in Women

Postmenopausal hormonal changes can affect the health and function of the urinary tract, often contributing to incontinence.

Prostate Changes in Men

Enlargement of the prostate, common in older men, can obstruct the flow of urine, leading to symptoms of incontinence, particularly overflow incontinence.

Decreased Mobility

Reduced mobility with ageing can lead to functional incontinence, as individuals may struggle to reach the toilet in time.

Comorbidities

The presence of other age-related conditions, such as arthritis, stroke, or diabetes, can compound the risk and severity of bladder incontinence.

Impact of Other Medical Conditions

Various medical conditions, apart from those directly related to the bladder or urinary tract, can influence the occurrence and severity of bladder incontinence.

Diabetes

Diabetes can lead to nerve damage that affects bladder control, as well as increased urine production, both of which can contribute to incontinence.

Cardiovascular Diseases

Conditions like heart failure can lead to fluid retention, resulting in an increased need to urinate, which may exacerbate incontinence, especially at night.

Respiratory Issues

Chronic respiratory conditions, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), often involve coughing that can put pressure on the bladder and pelvic floor muscles. This can lead to stress incontinence.

Diagnosis of Bladder Incontinence

Recognising the causes of bladder incontinence aids in early diagnosis. This typically involves a detailed review of the patient’s medical history, conducting a physical examination, especially of the abdominal and pelvic areas, and maintaining a bladder diary.  Diagnostic measures include urinalysis to check for infections or abnormalities, postvoid residual measurement assessing urine left in the bladder after urination, and urodynamic tests to evaluate bladder and urethra function. In certain cases, imaging tests such as ultrasound are utilised to gain a more comprehensive view of the urinary tract’s structure and functionality.

Conclusion

Bladder incontinence, while often a challenging and distressing condition, is diagnosable and manageable with the right approach. Understanding the physical, lifestyle-related, psychological, neurological, and age-related causes of the condition, can aid in effective management. The impact of other medical conditions on bladder incontinence emphasises the need for a holistic treatment approach. With a thorough diagnosis, treatments can be tailored to address specific causes and symptoms, improving the quality of life for those affected by bladder incontinence.

Bladder cancer refers to any malignant growth that originates in the bladder. The cancer begins in the cells lining the inside of the bladder, known as urothelial cells. The cancer cells can proliferate, forming a tumour and possibly spreading to other parts of the body.

Types of Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer is typically classified into several types, largely dependent on the cells in which it originates. Each type demonstrates unique characteristics, affecting the treatment approach and overall prognosis.

• Transitional Cell Carcinoma (Urothelial Carcinoma): Transitional Cell Carcinoma is the most common type, making up about 90% of all bladder cancers. It starts in the urothelial cells, the innermost lining of the bladder. These cells can stretch when the bladder is full and shrink when it is emptied. This cancer can be non-muscle invasive, where it’s limited to the inner layer of the bladder, or muscle-invasive, where it has spread to the bladder’s muscular wall.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Squamous cells are flat, thin cells that can form in the bladder as a response to long-term infection or irritation, accounting for about 1-2% of all bladder cancers. Squamous cell carcinoma arises when these cells become malignant over time due to prolonged infection or irritation. This form of bladder cancer is more common in regions where parasitic infections in the bladder are common. These infections can lead to chronic bladder inflammation, promoting squamous cell transformation and eventually, carcinoma.
• Adenocarcinoma: Adenocarcinoma is a rare type of bladder cancer, contributing to less than 1% of all cases. It originates in the glandular (secretory) cells located in the bladder lining, which produce and release mucus. This type of cancer may develop from prolonged inflammation and irritation, or from a congenital condition known as exstrophy that affects bladder development. Adenocarcinoma of the bladder often presents a challenge in treatment, owing to its typical discovery at advanced stages.

Understanding the different types of bladder cancer impacts both treatment options and outcomes. A urologist will be able to provide guidance based on the specific type and stage of bladder cancer diagnosed.

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Non-Muscle Invasive and Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancers

Bladder cancer can be broadly categorised into two main types: Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer (MIBC) and Non-Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer (NMIBC). Each type has distinct characteristics, treatment approaches, and prognostic factors.

Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer (MIBC)

MIBC is a type of bladder cancer where the abnormal cells have infiltrated the muscle layer of the bladder. MIBC is more aggressive and has a higher potential to spread to other parts of the body compared to NMIBC. 

Key points about MIBC:

Subtypes of MIBC: The most common subtype of MIBC is urothelial carcinoma, which arises from the transitional cells lining the bladder. Other less common subtypes include squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma.

Diagnosis and Staging of MIBC: The diagnosis of MIBC involves various tests and procedures. Imaging tests, such as CT scans and MRIs, help evaluate the extent of tumour infiltration. A biopsy of the bladder tissue confirms the presence of cancer cells. Staging systems, such as the TNM classification, are used to determine the stage of MIBC and guide treatment decisions.

Non-Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer (NMIBC)

NMIBC is a type of bladder cancer where the abnormal cells are confined to the innermost lining of the bladder and have not invaded the muscle layer. NMIBC is considered less aggressive and has a lower risk of spreading beyond the bladder. 

Key points about NMIBC:

Subtypes of NMIBC: NMIBC includes several subtypes, the most common of which are papillary tumours and carcinoma in situ (CIS). Papillary tumours grow as projections from the bladder lining, while CIS refers to the presence of flat, high-grade cancer cells.

Diagnosis and Staging of NMIBC: The diagnosis of NMIBC involves various diagnostic procedures, such as urine tests (cytology, NMP22, FISH) to detect abnormal cells shed in the urine. Cystoscopy, a procedure where a thin tube with a camera is inserted into the bladder, allows visual examination of the bladder lining. Biopsy samples may be taken during cystoscopy to confirm the presence of cancer cells. Staging systems, such as the TNM classification, help determine the stage and extent of NMIBC.

Conclusion

Increasing awareness and knowledge about these distinct types of bladder cancer can help individuals make informed decisions regarding prevention, early detection, and appropriate treatment strategies.

Bladder cancer is a common type of cancer that begins in the cells of the bladder, a hollow organ in the lower abdomen that stores urine. It is often detected early when it is highly treatable, but it has a high recurrence rate.

Treatment Options

The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the type and stage of the cancer, the patient’s overall health, and personal preferences.

Surgery: Surgery is often the first step in treating bladder cancer. The kind of surgery depends on how much the cancer has spread.

• Transurethral bladder tumour resection (TURBT): Used for early-stage bladder cancer. A thin tube with a camera on the end is inserted through the tube where urine exits the body (urethra) into the bladder. A special tool is used to remove the tumour or burn it away. This is done under anaesthesia and the patient doesn’t feel pain.

• Radical cystectomy: This surgery is used when the cancer has spread more deeply into the bladder. The entire bladder and possibly other nearby organs that might contain cancer cells is removed. For men, this might include the prostate, and for women, it might include the uterus and ovaries. The lymph nodes in the area might also be removed to check for cancer spread.

• Partial cystectomy: Only the part of the bladder that contains cancer cells is removed. This is usually done when the cancer is in a specific area that can be easily removed. The rest of the bladder is left intact to store urine.

• Urinary diversion: If the entire bladder is removed, the body needs a new way to store and get rid of urine. This is called urinary diversion. There are several methods, including:
  • a method where urine flows into a bag outside of the body, 
  • a method where urine is stored inside the body and drained through a tube, and 
  • a method where a pouch is attached to the urethra to allow for more normal urination.

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Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill cancer cells or to stop them from dividing. 

• Neoadjuvant chemotherapy: This is chemotherapy given before surgery. The goal is to shrink the cancer, making it easier to remove during surgery. It can also kill any tiny bits of cancer that may have spread but are too small to see.

• Adjuvant chemotherapy: This is chemotherapy given after surgery. The goal is to kill any cancer cells that might have been left behind. It can also help to stop the cancer from coming back.

There are two ways to give chemotherapy for bladder cancer:

• Intravesical chemotherapy: The medicines are put directly into the bladder through a tube. This mainly affects the cells in the bladder and usually has fewer side effects.

• Systemic chemotherapy: The medicines are given by injection into a vein or taken as a pill. They then travel through the body to kill cancer cells wherever they are. This can have more side effects, but it can also be more effective if the cancer has spread.

Immunotherapy: Stimulates the body’s immune system to fight cancer. 

• Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) therapy: In BCG therapy, a weakened version of BCG bacteria is put directly into the bladder through a tube. BCG therapy is often used for early-stage bladder cancer and is good at stopping the cancer from coming back after surgery. BCG therapy is usually given once a week for six weeks, and then less often for up to a year. It’s a local treatment, which means it only affects the bladder and doesn’t have the same side effects as treatments like chemotherapy. But it can still cause side effects, like bladder irritation and flu-like symptoms.

Targeted Therapy: In targeted therapy, drugs block specific genes or proteins that promote cancer cell growth and survival. It’s commonly used for advanced or metastatic bladder cancer. These drugs, usually taken as pills, slow down cancer cell growth and can shrink tumours. Targeted therapy isn’t suitable for all bladder cancer patients. The decision to use it depends on factors like genetic changes in the tumour, cancer stage, and overall health.

Gene Therapy: Gene therapy is an innovative approach to treat cancer by modifying the genes inside a person’s cells. In gene therapy for bladder cancer, the genes in bladder cells are altered to slow down or prevent the growth of cancer cells. This can involve introducing new genes that produce proteins to fight cancer or deactivating genes that promote cancer growth. Gene therapy for bladder cancer is still being studied in clinical trials and is not widely available as a standard treatment.

Radiation Therapy: Uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It’s often used instead of surgery or after surgery to eliminate remaining cancer cells. This damages the DNA in cancer cells, stopping them from growing and causing them to die. It can be used as an alternative to surgery or after surgery to remove any remaining cancer cells. Radiation therapy is delivered over several weeks, with short and painless sessions. Side effects may include fatigue, skin changes, and urinary issues.

Conclusion

Bladder cancer has various treatment options based on the cancer’s stage, patient’s health, and personal preferences. Each treatment has its specific use, from removing tumours and killing cancer cells to stimulating the immune system or blocking cancer growth.