Bladder Cancer in the Elderly

It occurs due to abnormal cell growth on the inner surface of the bladder. Symptoms usually include bleeding through the urine, frequent urination, and painful urination. Bladder cancer in the elderly Treatment methods include surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Response to treatment in older individuals may vary depending on general health status. Early diagnosis can facilitate the treatment process and improve quality of life.

What are the symptoms of bladder cancer in the elderly?

The most common symptom is blood in the urine. Bleeding may be intermittent and not always continuous. Bladder cancer in the elderly They may feel pain or burning when urinating. They may need to urinate more frequently than normal. This is related to the irritating effect of cancer on the bladder. The sudden and strong need to urinate creates an uncontrollable urgency.

There may be a weakening of the flow of urine or difficulty urinating. There may be constant pain in the lower abdomen or groin. There may be a situation where you cannot fully control your urine. It is possible to see blood in the urine in clotted form. Bladder cancer symptoms in older people It may also occur for different reasons. It is important to consult a doctor for early diagnosis.

What Causes Bladder Cancer in the Elderly?

The chemicals in cigarette smoke are excreted into the bladder through urine. They damage bladder cells, increasing the risk. Long-term exposure to industrial chemicals can increase the risk. As we age, DNA damage and mutations in body cells increase the risk. Recurrent urinary tract infections can cause damage to the bladder wall. This condition bladder cancer in the elderly Having radiation therapy to the pelvic area may increase the chance of developing cancer.

Individuals with a family history of this condition may be at increased risk due to genetic predisposition. Some medications used for treatment (e.g. chemotherapy drugs such as cyclophosphamide) may increase the risk. Inadequate fluid intake and unhealthy eating habits can lead to toxin accumulation in the bladder, paving the way for cancer. The effects of these risk factors increase with age, and regular screening and early diagnosis are vital.

How is Bladder Cancer Treated in the Elderly?

Bladder cancer in the elderly When it occurs, surgical intervention can be performed by taking into account the size and spread of the tumor. Transurethral resection can be applied for small tumors. In more advanced stages, the entire bladder may need to be removed. Chemotherapy can be applied before or after surgery. Chemotherapy drugs are used to shrink or destroy cancer cells. Dosage adjustments are made in elderly patients, taking into account side effects.

Radiation therapy is used to shrink cancer cells. In elderly patients, the general health status is taken into consideration. Immunotherapy is a type of treatment used to increase the ability of the body's immune system to fight cancer. The immune system is strongly supported, especially in elderly patients. Cancer is treated locally by administering medication directly to the bladder. BCG and chemotherapy drugs are used in this method. The general health status is improved with lifestyle changes recommended by the doctor during the treatment process. When determining treatment methods, the general health status and additional diseases of elderly patients are taken into consideration. Bladder cancer in the elderly The treatment plan is personalized according to this situation.