Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer is the 10th most common cancer worldwide, with increasing cases being diagnosed in developed nations. At Shore Point Radiation Oncology Center in Lakewood, New Jersey, Michael Marchese, MD, FACRO Hemangini Shah, DO, FACRO, and their team utilizes their extensive training and experience to treat bladder cancer. Call the office or book your appointment online today to learn more and schedule your consultation.

What are the symptoms of bladder cancer?

Bladder cancer begins in the cells that line your bladder. 

This type of cancer is stubborn and may recur even after successful treatment. Fortunately, the good news is that it is often diagnosed early and treated effectively.

Warning signs include:

• Frequent or painful urination
• Blood in your urine, sometimes appearing bright red or cola-colored
• Back pain

Am I at risk for bladder cancer?

Certain factors make you more likely to develop bladder cancer, including:

• Workplace exposure to certain chemicals
• Being born male
• Being over age 55
• Frequent dehydration
• Some medicines or supplements
• Chronic bladder inflammation
• Family or personal history of cancer
• Smoking

Smoking triples the likelihood of bladder cancer. In fact, about half of all bladder cancer cases are linked to smoking. The Shore Point Radiation Oncology Center can discuss areas of concern and help you lower your risk of developing cancer.

What treatments are available for bladder cancer?

Treatment for bladder cancer will depend on whether it is low grade or high grade and whether it superficial or has invaded into the muscle layer of the bladder. Low grade superficial cancers are often treated with removal by the urologist through the cystoscope. This is sometimes followed by instillation of drugs into the bladder so that it does not return. Invasive bladder cancers can be treated with radical cystectomy which is the removal of the bladder and creation of an artificial urine excretion system. Over the past two decades invasive bladder have been commonly treated with radiation therapy and chemotherapy following removal ofthe tumor
only through the cystoscope. This is often effective in curing the cancer while preserving the bladder. 

Shore Point Radiation Oncology uses state ofthe art image guided/intensity modulated radiation therapy to treat the bladder while sparing normal surrounding organs. Out radiation oncologists work closely with the urologist and medical oncologist to deliver the most effective treatment. Many urologists refer patients for treatment of bladder cancer to Shore Point. We have a very large experience treating this cancer.

Call Shore Point Radiation Oncology Center or book your appointment online for truly personalized bladder cancer treatment.