Some agents that cause cancer of the bladder include genetic mutations, smoking, and exposure to harmful chemicals. If you experience symptoms like blood in the urine and lower abdominal pain, see a bladder cancer doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Here are some factors that determine how quickly bladder cancer spreads:
Type of Bladder Cancer
Urothelial carcinoma is the most common type of bladder cancer, which affects the urothelial cells inside the bladder, urethra, and ureters. Advanced forms of this bladder cancer spread faster to other parts of the body if left untreated. Squamous cell carcinoma invades deeper layers of the bladder and develops after long-term cellular irritation or infection. It’s an aggressive cancer and causes further irritation and inflammation of the bladder. This type of cancer can break through the bladder wall and move into surrounding tissues and organs.
Patient’s Age and Health
Young people have a stronger immune system because their body’s defense mechanisms are fully developed and functioning optimally. This allows them to fight off cancer cells and slow the rate at which cancer spreads to other body parts. Because younger and healthier people can handle stronger treatments, a bladder cancer doctor may use intense treatments to manage their symptoms. As people age, their immune systems weaken, so it’s harder for their bodies to fight cancer. Some older individuals have other health issues like diabetes and heart ailments that make it more difficult for their bodies to handle treatments like surgery or chemotherapy. With the lack of proper treatment, bladder cancer may spread more quickly.
Stage of the Cancer
When cancer is in its early stages, it is confined to the inner lining of the bladder and is less likely to extend to other parts of the body. Patients may experience blood in urine or frequent urination, but the cancer’s growth is slow. To manage the spread, a doctor may remove tumors through the urethra or place medications directly in the bladder. Bladder cancer in the late stages metastasizes quickly to the lymph nodes because the tumor has invaded the muscle layer. Treatment for late-stage bladder cancer may involve more intensive approaches, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
Smoking History
Smoking can cause chronic inflammation and irritation in the bladder, leading to abnormal cell growth and changes. Smoking regularly causes cancer cells to multiply and move beyond their original location, worsening the symptoms. The chemicals in cigarettes weaken the immune system, allowing cancer cells to grow and spread without being controlled by the body’s defenses. Excessive tobacco use can damage blood vessels, which limits the supply of oxygen and nutrients to body tissues. This encourages the tumors to become more invasive as they adapt to survive in substandard conditions.
Book an Appointment With a Bladder Cancer Doctor
The speed at which bladder cancer spreads depends on its type and stage and the individual’s health history, among other factors. To determine how far the cancer has spread, your healthcare provider reviews your symptoms and conducts different tests. Schedule an appointment with a urologist today to learn more about bladder cancer risks and available treatment options.
