Bladder And Kidney Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnosis And Treatment

By Daphne Bowen


For ages, humans have had to deal with a myriad of diseases and disorders of the body. Many of the times, the diseases have claimed millions of lives. Sometimes we are lucky to get a cure and other times not so lucky. One of these diseases that has plagued modern day human population is bladder and kidney cancer.

Cancer begins in the bodys cells. It is as a result of failed mechanism for controlling cell division. When the cells division is unchecked, they form a lump of cells known as a tumour. The lump of cells may remain in the part of the body it originates from or it may spread to other parts of ones body. When it spreads, it is now referred to as cancer. The factors that result in failed body mechanisms are not yet known.

This cancer affect both men and women although it is prevalent in men. It affects the respective organs and is observed in a significant part of the general population. The most common risk factor for development of this disease is smoking as it is responsible for more than half of all new cases. Additionally, chronic irritation from schistosomiasis, exposure to some drugs and industrial chemicals are also risk factors.

Cancers of the bladder and the kidney is associated with several symptoms. However, the most common and one used for diagnosis is blood in the urine. Patients may also experience pain during the passage of urine or on the lower back on one side of the body. Some patients may also feel the urge to urinate frequently, especially at night. In other cases, the urge to urinate is accompanied by difficulties in doing so.

By the time blood is spotted in urine and a cancer diagnosis is given, the disease has spread to other parts of ones body. Consequently, there may be other symptoms depending on which part of the body is infected. For instance, shortness of breath if its already in the lungs and jaundice if its in the liver.

Diagnosis is carried out by a cystoscopy. A small tissue from the kidney or bladder may be removed and analysed. To determine whether it has spread, a CT or x-ray scan may be performed. If it does not spread, the risk of dying within the first five years after diagnosis is reduced to less than 5%. Treatment involves removal of these tumours or sometimes a part or whole organ.

There are various ways to reduce ones chances of developing cancer of the bladder and kidney. The first is to lead an active life through exercise. The second way is to eat healthy foods including fish, whole grains, vegetables and fruits. Also, quitting smoking is imperative since it is a high-risk factor.

Leading a healthy life is the only way to reduce the chances of developing the disease. Eating, exercising and quitting smoking are healthy lifestyle habits that can significantly reduce ones risk for the disease. This will have to work until we can develop a cure or at least, a vaccine.




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