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Essay / Bladder Cancer Essay - 1156
In 2014, bladder cancer caused 15,580 deaths in the United States. It can affect anyone, but most commonly affects older adults (National Cancer Institute, 2014). Bladder cancer usually develops on the inner layer of the bladder and can spread to other parts of the body, grow back, and even cause death. Cancer begins with the cells that make up the different tissues of the body. Normally, the body's cells grow and renew themselves at a reasonable rate, as needed. Sometimes the cell growth/replenishment process can get a little out of control and the body doesn't need the cells it produces. When this happens, a mass or tumor may form in this tissue. Tumors can be benign or malignant. When a tumor is benign, it is not as harmful as a malignant tumor. Malignant cancers can metastasize, grow back after removal, or even cause death. There are specific symptoms, risk factors, causes, and several different treatment options for bladder cancer. The bladder is a part of the urinary system that stores the body's liquid waste made up by the kidneys. The bladder is a balloon-shaped structure that has three layers: an inner layer, a middle layer, and an outer layer. There are three different types of cancer that can affect the bladder. The most common type of bladder cancer is called transitional cell carcinoma. This type of cancer develops in the cells that form the inner lining of the bladder. 9 to 10 Americans with bladder cancer have transitional cell carcinoma (National Cancer Institute, 2014). Squamous cell carcinoma is a bladder cancer that starts in thin, flat cells. This type of bladder cancer is not common in the United States because it accompanies a parasitic infection called schistosomiasis. The third type of bladder contains paper, urine inside the body. This is attached to the urethra and allows normal urination. Sometimes a catheter may be needed to completely empty the bladder. There are also options for immunotherapy. This is when medications are delivered through the urethra directly into the bladder and work with the body's immune system to help fight cancer. There are also options for radiation therapy and chemotherapy, before and after surgery or even alone (Mayo Clinic, 2012). Bladder cancer can happen to anyone. It is important for patients to know the symptoms and report any unusual findings to their doctor. If bladder cancer is detected early enough, it can be treated non-invasively. If detected at a later stage, fortunately there are options with high success rates allowing patients to lead fairly normal lives despite the surgery they may have to undergo...