It’s another #FACTUALFRIDAY everyone – and since July is Bladder Cancer Month – that will be our topic today!
Now, the bladder is the organ than retains and releases urine – and is located in the middle of the abdomen. Cancer of the bladder affects both men and women, but it occurs:
- More frequently in men than women;
- More commonly in older individuals at the average age of 73, and;
- More often in Caucasians than Blacks at a rate of approximately 2 to 1.
The Symptoms of Bladder Cancer can include:
- Abdominal pain;
- Incontinence;
- Fatigue;
- Weight loss;
- Blood in the urine, and;
- Frequent, painful or urgent urination.
The Risk Factors for Bladder Cancer appear to be:
- Exposure to occupational carcinogens in the rubber, aluminum or leather industries AND the occupations of pesticide technicians and truck drivers;
- Past treatment with the chemotherapy drug cyclophosphamide;
- A history of chronic bladder infections;
- In women, radiation therapy for cervical cancer, and;
- Cigarette smoking! Indeed, it is estimated that a cigarette smoker is approximately 3 to 4 times more likely to develop bladder cancer than a non-smoker.
The good news about this particular cancer is that its rates of occurrence are not increasing. In fact, the rate for men in the United States has remained level for several years AND the rate for women has decreased.
ALSO, bladder cancer has definite symptoms that can signal its presence. AND, more than 500,000 Americans have survived this cancer to enjoy healthy and productive lives!
So, as always, pay attention to your body – and any unexplained changes that may occur. Exercise common sense and if there is any question, visit your doctor immediately. Remember, early detection is the key to successful treatment!
Don’t be Afraid – be Informed!!
Don’t be Re-active – be Pro-active!!
Thanks for joining me everyone and until next time…
TAKE THE COURSE AND TAKE CHARGE!
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