Bladder Cancer Awareness Month
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Bladder Cancer. Two words that deliver a devastating impact. Every year, over 570,000 people are diagnosed with bladder cancer and 1.7m people find themselves living with the condition. It is the 10th most commonly diagnosed cancer and the 13th cause of death from cancer globally. But, a timely diagnosis offers a significant increase in the chance of long-term survival and quality of life. Blood in the urine is the most important warning sign of bladder cancer to watch out for.
About 2023 theme
We are thrilled to announce our new, evolved campaign theme for this year:
‘Feeling unsure? Get checked.’
One of the main barriers in timely diagnosis of bladder cancer are related to the symptoms. Both symptoms and the way in which people respond to them can vary, especially as some of the symptoms are not immediately seen as linked to bladder cancer. The discovery of blood in the urine, painful urination, and irregular urination can all be mistaken for other conditions, causing bladder cancer to be overlooked.
What is Bladder Cancer?
Bladder cancer most often begins in the urothelial cells that line the inside of your bladder. Cancer occurs when cells in the bladder start to grow out of control. Most tumors develop on the inner layer of the bladder. Some can grow into deeper bladder layers. As cancer grows through these layers into the muscle wall, it becomes harder to treat. Urothelial cells are also found in your kidneys and the ureters, the tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder. Bladder cancer can happen in the kidneys and ureters, too, though much less frequently.
How will my bladder cancer be treated?
This depends on whether your cancer is invasive, non-invasive, and if the cancer has spread. Surgical removal of tumors, radiation, and possibly chemotherapy can all help to treat bladder cancer.
Heptner Cancer Center is a team of dedicated experts ready to walk with you through your journey with cancer. If you or someone you love is battling bladder cancer and is seeking treatment, reach out to Heptner Cancer Center by calling 307.688.1900.
