Bladdersyöpä

Bladdersyöpä, a Finnish term, translates to bladder cancer. It is a disease characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the bladder. These cells can form tumors and potentially spread to other parts of the body. The most common type of bladder cancer begins in the urothelial cells that line the inside of the bladder.

Risk factors for developing bladder cancer include smoking, which is the most significant contributor, exposure to certain industrial chemicals, chronic bladder inflammation, and a family history of the disease. Age is also a factor, with most cases diagnosed in individuals over the age of 60. Men are more likely to develop bladder cancer than women.

Symptoms of bladder cancer can include blood in the urine (hematuria), which may appear as pink, red, or cola-colored urine. Other symptoms can include frequent urination, pain during urination, and a persistent urge to urinate. However, these symptoms can also be caused by other, less serious conditions.

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, urine tests to detect blood or abnormal cells, and imaging tests like CT scans or ultrasounds. A cystoscopy, a procedure where a thin, lighted tube is inserted into the bladder, allows doctors to visualize the bladder lining and take biopsies of any suspicious areas.

Treatment options depend on the stage and type of bladder cancer. They can include surgery to remove cancerous tissue, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. Early detection and treatment are crucial for a better prognosis.