Bladder cancer – C67

There are many types of bladder cancer, the most common (90%) are the so called benign papillomas and malignant papillary carcinomas, both of which grow in tissues of the urinary bladder. Incidence of bladder cancer Cancer of the urinary tract is the sixth most common in men and the thirteenth in women. Bladder cancer is diagnosed in a quarter of a million people worldwide. Its frequency is increasing in all industrial countries. However, many new research studies suggest its treatment success is also rising.

Causes of bladder cancer

The most significant risk factor is smoking which increases the risk up to 4 times. Smokers were reported to have more aggressive forms of the disease and its progression. Carcinogenic substances used in industry also show a possible causal link to the onset of bladder cancer. Age is a risk factor as tumors rarely occur in people before 40. It affects men to a greater extent. Other causes may include frequent urinary tract infections (UTI), bladder stones that induce tumor changes by irritating the bladder lining, long-term use of certain drugs, a weak immune system or a parasitic disease. Although the evidence of genetic influences was reported in 1% of cases, combined with other risk factors it should not be underestimated.

Signs and symptoms of bladder cancer

At the beginning there are almost no symptoms, later on manifestations similar to UTI appear – burning and pain during urination, frequent but less productive urination, or shooting low back pain. Blood in urine called haematuria is the most common sign present in up to 75% of patients. A loss of appetite, weight loss and anaemia occur in later stages.

Preventing bladder cancer

Although bladder cancer cannot be prevented directly, some risk factors may be limited, thus reducing the risk significantly. Crucial is to not smoke/stop smoking, to avoid overuse of certain drugs or contact with high-risk toxic substances, and to be aware of the warning signs. In genetic predispositions, preventative screenings should be requested as they can reveal the problem on time and save a life. Regularly reinforcing the immune system can also prevent tumor growth.

Impact of the immune system on bladder cancer

As a result of a weak immune system, the urinary tract is compromised, and this leads to frequently recurring inflammations, or bladder stones that may cause bladder cancer. Prevention of urinary tract diseases by enhancing the immune system is thus very important in order to prevent more serious conditions. A regular immunity boost can be supplied by natural food supplements. If bladder cancer has already developed, the immune system must be supported even more so.