As cancer cases continue to rise, it’s encouraging to note that our ability to combat the disease is improving. However, there is still a concerning lack of awareness about some of the more unusual symptoms of cancer, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment.
One such symptom is leg swelling, which can be a sign of bladder cancer, particularly when accompanied by other warning signs.
May is Bladder Cancer Awareness Month, and it’s essential to recognize the importance of early detection and prevention.
Men over 45 are disproportionately affected, although women are also at risk. If caught early, bladder cancer has a good prognosis, but sadly, more than half of patients diagnosed with the disease will not survive due to late detection.
This is often because we neglect to seek medical attention promptly when symptoms arise. Men are more likely to be affected, but women are also vulnerable to this cancer.
The majority of bladder cancer cases involve cancerous lesions on the inner lining of the bladder, known as epithelial bladder cancer, which develops gradually over time.
With regular check-ups and a commitment to our health, the outlook can be very positive.
This disease primarily affects seniors and smokers, with smoking being the leading risk factor, responsible for over a third of all bladder cancer cases, according to the NHS.
Smoking significantly increases the risk of developing bladder cancer, with a fourfold higher likelihood compared to non-smokers.
Bladder cancer can manifest in both invasive and non-invasive forms, with the aggressive type potentially spreading to deeper tissues, including muscles.
Although bladder cancer may remain asymptomatic for an extended period, its advanced stage can present surprising symptoms.
In addition to typical cancer-related issues, unusual urinary symptoms may appear, including leg swelling, a common indicator of epithelial bladder cancer.
According to the Mayo Clinic, hematuria (blood in the urine) is a prevalent symptom, along with frequent urination, painful urination, and burning sensations.
However, not all symptoms are overt; advanced bladder cancer may also cause pelvic or bone pain, leg swelling, or unexplained weight loss.
It’s crucial to recognize that these symptoms can be related to other conditions, but they should never be dismissed.
Leg swelling, in particular, is often overlooked until it reaches an advanced stage, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and timely medical attention.
“Let’s not underestimate hematuria, even if it has passed! The appearance of blood in urine is an alarm signal that cannot be ignored, and thorough oncological diagnostics should always be performed in such a case,” appeals Prof. PhD n. med.
According to Tomasz Drewa, President of the Polish Urological Society, bladder cancer primarily affects older individuals, with the majority of cases occurring in people over 75 years old.
However, certain risk factors significantly increase the likelihood of developing the disease. These include smoking tobacco and tobacco products, radiotherapy or chemotherapy, type 2 diabetes, chronic catheterization, recurrent urinary tract infections, urinary tract stones, and untreated schistosomiasis infection (bilharzia).
If you or a loved one suspects cancer, promptly inform your family doctor about your symptoms and concerns. Early detection is crucial, as it significantly improves the prognosis.
Hematuria (blood in the urine) is a serious symptom regardless of age or risk factors, and ignoring suspicious bodily signals can have severe consequences. Regular check-ups are essential for maintaining good health.
