BY WINNIE KENDI MUTURI
Bladder cancer is the growth of abnormal tissue, known as a tumor, that develops in the bladder lining.
Bladder cancer awareness month is observed every year in May and is dedicated to discussing what bladder cancer is, its habitual symptoms, the risks involved, and also preventive measures for the disease.
The 2023 theme for bladder awareness month is the “unsure icon”, reflecting on the uncertainty of bladder cancer and its timely diagnosis.
The disease has been connected with environmental toxins. It was first discovered in 1895. Preliminary to this, in 1877, the German urologist Maximilian Nitze discovered the process of cystoscopy i.e. the endoscopy for the urinary bladder.
Treatment for this n-type of cancer was done through surgical removal of some parts or all of the bladder.
This tradition was used to treat cysts or tumors of the bladder until 1903. Several treatment options were conducted since the early 2000s with the aid of the advancement of science and technology.
A chemotherapy combination was introduced in 2000. It is eyed more effective and with fewer side effects than M.V.A.C therapy. Currently in 2016, the latest methods were invented that exposed cancerous tumors in the bladder that cannot be seen with a naked eye.
People are getting enlightened about bladder cancer from the awareness campaigns done and also the new technologies have played a great role in this.
Bladder cancer awareness boosts funding by creating awareness of the disease hence encouraging investments into the research, care, and treatment that is very essential to the victims of this disease.
It also gives Caregivers, patients, and also loved ones an opportunity to share their stories and pay respect to those who succumbed to this terrible disease.
SYMPTOMS OF THE BLADDER CANCER.
Blood in the urine. It may cause urine to appear bright red. Though at times the blood may not appear in urine but can be detected on a lab test.
Constant urination.
Pain when urinating.
Back pain.
Bladder cancer can be caused when cells in the bladder mutate in their DNA. The cells multiply rapidly and go on living when the healthy cells die.
Bladder cancer can be of various types, such as urothelial carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and adenocarcinoma.
Bladder cancer can be treated through;
Surgery, chemotherapy, biological therapy, and radiation therapy.