A Brief Guide To Bladder And Kidney Cancer

By Daphne Bowen


Humans have been plagued by diseases for their entire history, claiming millions of lives. In some cases, our scientists developed cures and vaccines to prevent them. In other cases, we have not been unlucky, and these diseases continue to take our lives. Present day world is suffering from cancer, one of which 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.

Smoking is the single greatest risk factor for developing cancer on the kidney and bladder. It is responsible for more than half of all new cases of these diseases. In addition, chronic irritation from parasitic infections such as schistosomiasis, long-term exposure to certain drugs and industrial chemicals are risk factors. The diseases affect a significant proportion of the population.

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.

Usually, it takes time for the blood to be noticed in the urine. By the time that happens, the tumour is in other tissues and organs in the body. As a result, the individual may have additional symptoms depending on where the disease has spread to. The patient may have jaundice is the disease has reached the liver, for example.

The tumour may spread to other parts of ones body. If it does, the patient may experience other symptoms depending on the organ affected. For instance, jaundice is observed if the liver is affected and coughing if the lung is affected. If it does not spread and also grows slowly, the risk of dying is less than 5% within the first five years. Radiation or chemotherapy options may be explored. Additionally, removal of parts or entire organs may be considered for treatment.

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.

Since we have not yet solved the mystery surrounding the cure and vaccines for tumours affecting the bladder and kidney, reducing the chances of developing them is imperative. Quit smoking and start eating healthy as well as exercising to ensure a long, healthy life.




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