Bladder cancer is a relatively common type of cancer, particularly among older adults. Understanding the signs, symptoms, and treatment options can help individuals detect and address the disease early. For seniors, being aware of subtle changes in their body can be especially important. Early detection can lead to better outcomes. This article provides an overview of common symptoms of bladder cancer and treatment options.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Bladder Cancer
Bladder cancer symptoms often overlap with other conditions, which can make it harder to identify at first. If you or a loved one are experiencing any of the following signs, it is important to consult a healthcare provider:
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
The most common symptom of bladder cancer is blood in the urine, which may appear pink, red, or brown. This blood may be visible or detected only through a urine test. It’s important to note that blood in the urine does not always mean cancer, but it is something that requires medical attention. - Frequent urination
Many people with bladder cancer report feeling the need to urinate more often than usual, even when their bladder is not full. This can happen during the day or night and can disrupt normal activities. - Pain or burning during urination
Bladder cancer may cause discomfort or a burning sensation while urinating, similar to symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI). This can persist even after treatment for infections. - Urgency to urinate, even when the bladder is not full
A constant feeling of urgency can occur, even without much urine in the bladder. This symptom may be overlooked, especially in seniors, as it can be mistaken for common age-related bladder issues. - Lower back or pelvic pain
Pain in the lower back or around the pelvic area, particularly on one side of the body, may be a sign that bladder cancer has advanced and is affecting nearby tissues or organs. - Swelling in the legs and feet
In some cases, advanced bladder cancer can cause swelling in the lower legs and feet, which may result from the cancer affecting lymph nodes or disrupting blood circulation. - Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
While these symptoms are more general and can be related to many health issues, persistent fatigue or unexpected weight loss can sometimes be associated with advanced bladder cancer.
It’s important to keep in mind that not everyone with bladder cancer will have the same symptoms, and some may experience different signs or no symptoms at all. If any of these symptoms arise, early consultation with a healthcare provider is crucial for further evaluation.
Bladder Cancer May Be More Common Than You Think
Bladder cancer is often associated with aging, and its prevalence among seniors may be higher than many people realize. According to the American Cancer Society’s estimates for 2024, approximately 83,190 new cases of bladder cancer will be diagnosed in the United States (about 63,070 in men and 20,120 in women). It is also expected that there will be about 16,840 deaths due to bladder cancer (about 12,290 in men and 4,550 in women) this year.
Bladder cancer primarily affects older adults, with about 9 out of 10 people diagnosed being over the age of 55. The average age at diagnosis is 73. Additionally, men are significantly more likely to develop bladder cancer than women. Overall, the lifetime risk of developing bladder cancer is about 1 in 28 for men and 1 in 89 for women.
Source: American Cancer Society
Padcev Treatment for Bladder Cancer
Padcev (enfortumab vedotin-ejfv) is an FDA-approved antibody-drug conjugate designed to treat certain cases of bladder cancer. It works by targeting Nectin-4, a protein commonly found on the surface of bladder cancer cells, and delivering a toxic agent directly to these cells to destroy them. Padcev is used in patients with advanced bladder cancer who have previously received immunotherapy or chemotherapy. Clinical trials have demonstrated its effectiveness in shrinking tumors and improving outcomes for certain patients (Source: Padcev).
Pros:
Padcev offers a targeted approach by directly attacking cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. Clinical trials showed that 44% of patients treated with Padcev experienced tumor shrinkage, and in 12% of cases, tumors completely disappeared. For patients whose cancer has progressed after other treatments, Padcev provides an additional option that may improve quality of life and outcomes (Source: Padcev).
Cons:
Like any cancer treatment, Padcev has limitations. It may not be effective for all patients, and side effects can include fatigue, peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage), skin reactions, and elevated blood sugar levels. Serious side effects, such as infusion reactions or liver damage, may also occur, requiring careful monitoring by healthcare providers during treatment (Source: Padcev).
Overall, Padcev represents an important advancement for patients with advanced bladder cancer who have exhausted other treatment options. By directly targeting cancer cells, it offers a promising therapy with the potential to improve outcomes for certain individuals. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to assess its suitability and manage any associated risks (Source: Padcev).
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