Rabu, 22 Januari 2014

Recent Findings In Bladder Cancer Research

By Amanda Bean


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.

Studies show that the prevalence of this cancer is at 400,000 in the United States. The incidence is about 16,000 every year. These statistics mean that the disease is huge public problem that should be taken seriously. Mortality is mainly cause by the high grade types that are also very invasive. Early identification and treatment helps reduce mortality significantly.

This cancer is also a common problem in pet dogs. The type found in dogs is mainly the high grade type. Dogs are usually noted to have urinary obstruction symptoms as the first sign at which time the disease is usually advanced. The commonest histological type is known as transitional cell carcinoma. Fortunately, there are treatment modalities that can be used when the disease is identified early. Studies conducted in dogs have been the main source of data on the disease.

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.

Occupational exposure is another major risk factor. The condition has been demonstrated more frequently among persons working in rubber and dye industries. The first evidence of the cause and effect relationship was demonstrated in the 1950s. Amines are a component of many dyes and are thought to be the main contributing factor. Naphthylamine and benzidine are most notorious of the amines.

Some drugs and medical procedures may also increase the risk especially if used repeatedly. Cyclophosphamide and phenacetin are well known examples. Cyclophosphamide is a useful antitumor agent but may affect the urinary system as an adverse effect. The main medical procedure that may predispose is pelvic irradiation.

Bladder cancer research will only be helpful if the results are well recorded in a properly managed data base. Patient details should be kept in a confidential but an accessible area to authorised personnel. Some studies will require that data is kept for several years or even decades. For this reason, good management is key. Response to different therapies and interventions should be clearly indicated in patient files. It is these results that influence future decision making.




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