Yikes!!
Leg Swelling: A Warning Sign of
Bladder Cancer
Swelling in the legs may indicate serious health problems, such as bladder
cancer. Cancer is becoming more common, and although we are improving
in our ability to combat it, awareness of some unusual symptoms remains
low. Often, we visit the doctor too infrequently and ignore the signals our
bodies send.
Swelling in the legs, especially when accompanied by other symptoms, can
be an indicator of serious health issues like bladder cancer. May is Bladder
Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of prevention and
early detection. Men over 45 are most commonly affected, but women can
also develop this cancer. Early detection and treatment significantly improve
the prognosis for bladder cancer patients.
Bladder Cancer Overview
Bladder cancer is a serious condition where more than half of diagnosed
patients do not recover. This is often due to late reporting of symptoms. Both
men and women can develop bladder cancer, though men are more
frequently affected. The cancer typically forms on the inner lining of the
bladder, known as the epithelium. Epithelial bladder cancer develops slowly,
and with regular check-ups and proper health care, the prognosis can be
favorable.
Prevention and Risk Factors
Bladder cancer predominantly affects older adults and smokers. According to
the NHS, smoking accounts for over a third of all bladder cancer cases,
making it the most significant risk factor. Smokers are four times more likely
to develop bladder cancer compared to non-smokers. The disease can be
invasive or non-invasive, with aggressive forms potentially spreading to
deeper tissues, including muscles.
Unusual Symptoms of Bladder Cancer
Bladder cancer may not present specific symptoms for a long time. In
advanced stages, however, it can cause surprising symptoms, including
unusual ones related to urination. Swelling in the legs is one such symptom.
According to the Mayo Clinic, common symptoms include hematuria (blood in
the urine), a frequent need to urinate, and pain or burning during urination.
Advanced bladder cancer can also cause pelvic or bone pain, leg swelling,
and unexpected weight loss.
Swelling in the legs, often overlooked, can be associated with epithelial
bladder cancer. Professor Tomasz Drewa, President of the Polish Urological
Society, stresses the importance of not ignoring hematuria, urging thorough
oncological diagnostics when blood appears in the urine.
Who is at Risk?
Bladder cancer mainly affects older individuals, particularly those over 75.
Several factors increase the risk of developing bladder cancer, including
smoking tobacco, radiotherapy or chemotherapy, type 2 diabetes, chronic
catheterization, long-term urinary tract infections (UTIs), urinary tract stones,
and untreated schistosomiasis infection (bilharzia).
Importance of Early Detection
If you suspect that you or a loved one might have bladder cancer, it is crucial
to consult a healthcare provider promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can
significantly improve outcomes. Hematuria is always a serious symptom that
should not be ignored, regardless of age or other risk factors. Regular check-
ups and attention to bodily signals are essential in preventing and managing
bladder cancer effectively.
Increasing awareness of bladder cancer's symptoms and risk factors is vital
for improving early detection and treatment outcomes. By understanding the
signs and seeking timely medical advice, individuals can take proactive steps
towards better health.
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