Bladder cancer research studies have given a great insight into the pathology of the disease. Better understanding of the disease has in turn has made it possible to develop better management protocols. Current there are many research activities still continuing throughout the world. Some of the areas that have generated a lot of interest among the medical fraternity in this area include the aetiology, precipitating factors and epidemiological characteristics.
There are a number of therapies that have been established thanks to the studies. One of the newest treatments is gene therapy. In gene therapy, modification of the genetic make-up is used to destroy cancerous cells and to stop their growth. The treatment is highly selective and avoids the side effects associated with conventional treatments. Other forms of treatment that are now being considered include laparoscopic robotic surgery, personalised chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
According to some recent studies, the prevalence of bladder cancer in the United States stands at about 400, 000 currently. The incidence is a staggering 16,000 cases per year. This makes the disease a major problem. Mortality is mainly due to the extremely aggressive, invasive types. Fortunately these affect a smaller proportion of patients. Early diagnosis is very important if cure is to be attained.
The condition has also been seen in dogs and has been extensively studied. Among dogs, the commonest type is the high grade type which typically presents with urinary obstruction. If not diagnosed in time, the tumour rapidly causes death. A number of treatments are in different stages of development. So far, the results from trials involving treatment of transitional cell carcinoma among the canines have been very promising.
The risk factors for the condition have been clearly profiled. Smoking remains the biggest risk factor contributing to about 35% of the cases according to a study conducted in the UK in 2010. Compared to non-smokers, smokers are four times more likely to get the tumour. The risk is proportional to the length and quantity of smoking.
Another huge risk factor is occupational exposure. Persons that work in dye and rubber industries have been shown to be at a greater risk compared to the general population. The relationship between dyes has been known from as beck as the nineteenth century but it was not until the 1950s that it was scientifically proven. The components that have been shown to be harmful include benzidine and naphthalene.
There are a number of drugs that are thought to also increase the risk. Drugs such as phenacetin and cyclophosphamide are well known for this. Cyclophosphamide is actually an antitumor agent that is used is used in the treatment of other types of cancers but may affect the bladder as a side effect. Pelvic irradiation for treatment of different conditions is also a huge risk factor.
For the benefits of bladder cancer research to be fully appreciated, one needs to be organised. All the data should be entered into a database. Matching the patient response to treatment to their biodata is used to assess the treatment effectiveness. Since some studies may require files to be stored for decades, it is important to identify a secure location.
There are a number of therapies that have been established thanks to the studies. One of the newest treatments is gene therapy. In gene therapy, modification of the genetic make-up is used to destroy cancerous cells and to stop their growth. The treatment is highly selective and avoids the side effects associated with conventional treatments. Other forms of treatment that are now being considered include laparoscopic robotic surgery, personalised chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
According to some recent studies, the prevalence of bladder cancer in the United States stands at about 400, 000 currently. The incidence is a staggering 16,000 cases per year. This makes the disease a major problem. Mortality is mainly due to the extremely aggressive, invasive types. Fortunately these affect a smaller proportion of patients. Early diagnosis is very important if cure is to be attained.
The condition has also been seen in dogs and has been extensively studied. Among dogs, the commonest type is the high grade type which typically presents with urinary obstruction. If not diagnosed in time, the tumour rapidly causes death. A number of treatments are in different stages of development. So far, the results from trials involving treatment of transitional cell carcinoma among the canines have been very promising.
The risk factors for the condition have been clearly profiled. Smoking remains the biggest risk factor contributing to about 35% of the cases according to a study conducted in the UK in 2010. Compared to non-smokers, smokers are four times more likely to get the tumour. The risk is proportional to the length and quantity of smoking.
Another huge risk factor is occupational exposure. Persons that work in dye and rubber industries have been shown to be at a greater risk compared to the general population. The relationship between dyes has been known from as beck as the nineteenth century but it was not until the 1950s that it was scientifically proven. The components that have been shown to be harmful include benzidine and naphthalene.
There are a number of drugs that are thought to also increase the risk. Drugs such as phenacetin and cyclophosphamide are well known for this. Cyclophosphamide is actually an antitumor agent that is used is used in the treatment of other types of cancers but may affect the bladder as a side effect. Pelvic irradiation for treatment of different conditions is also a huge risk factor.
For the benefits of bladder cancer research to be fully appreciated, one needs to be organised. All the data should be entered into a database. Matching the patient response to treatment to their biodata is used to assess the treatment effectiveness. Since some studies may require files to be stored for decades, it is important to identify a secure location.