Bladder Cancer Treatment: Effective Options for Recovery
The bladder cancer treatment approach depends on the stage and type of cancer, with options ranging from surgery to targeted therapies. Early-stage bladder cancer may be treated with transurethral resection (TURBT), while more advanced cases may require bladder removal, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiation. Advancements in treatment now offer improved survival rates and better quality of life. A personalized treatment plan is essential for achieving the best outcomes.
Bladder Cancer Treatment in India
The treatment of bladder cancer depends on the stage it is in and how much they have spread in the body
The methods of cancer treatment are surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted drug therapy, and potentially many more.
This happens to be the primary line of treatment signifying the beginning phase where cancer is removed from an organ. Among bladder cancer surgery, transurethral resection of a bladder tumor (TURBT) tops the list. Surgeons insert electricity through a tube and burn out the cancer.
Chemotherapy is used by doctors to attack stage 3 and 4 cancers, they can either inject it through the vein or directly into the bladder. Just before a surgery which helps in effectiveness, usually chemotherapeutics are given via a vein.
Radiation therapies are usually scheduled daily for weeks and in most cases an off day during weekdays. The treatment is almost nothing, like getting an X-ray. It is just that the radiation is stronger. Radiation doesn’t hurt. Though each treatment takes only a few minutes, the setup time, which includes positioning you for treatment, may take longer.
Immunotherapy helps the immune system do its job. It helps the body to identify cancer cells.
Drugs zero in on the particular mutations that help propagate cancer. There are manifold targets in cancer cells that can be directed with various medications.
The year 2003 marked the introduction of a new method of surgery, robot-assisted laparoscopic radical cystectomy and this quickly became one of the most important developments in the surgical field affecting the outcomes of many patients.
What Should You Know About Post-Treatment Care?
You need to know about these things after the treatment of bladder cancer. Let’s find out what they are.
- Follow-ups with doctors are very important. You need to visit your doctor regularly for check-ups. During the initial 2 to 3 years post-treatment, you should have a check-up every 3 to 4 months.
- You need to take care of your mouth because after chemotherapy, it can become dry, and you may develop sores. Therefore, you should brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush after every meal and at bedtime.
- You may feel lethargic and fatigued for months or years, but it will improve with time.
- You should also discuss any side effects with your doctor.
- You should maintain a very healthy diet and gradually begin exercising.
Which Country is Best for Bladder Cancer Treatment?
India has several well-trained doctors who practice in different hospitals and healthcare organizations. The country has not only specific but also well-trained operative and post-operative care teams apart from doctors. What is more, it is noted that these groups can effectively address matters of considerable controversy for a reasonable fee.
How to Choose the Best Hospital for Bladder Cancer Treatment in India?
Select a hospital that is equipped with all the latest state-of-the-art technology and a team of highly qualified medical oncologists and surgical oncologists besides radio oncologists and well-trained, skilled paramedical staff.
The percentage of the successful oncology team and the survival rates in the hospital should also be taken into consideration.
How to Choose the Best Oncologist for your Bladder Cancer Treatment in India?
You should not rely on just one doctor for a successful outcome and higher success and survival rates, but rather on a team of doctors. This multidisciplinary approach is also known as the Tumour Board.
The tumor board approach is a new way to improve survival rates in bladder cancer patients. Highly skilled medical, surgical, and radiation oncologists collaborate closely on the case to achieve the best possible treatment outcome.
With this tumor board approach to treating patients, MedicoExperts helps patients all over the world get the best possible treatment and survival rates.
Bladder Cancer Treatment Cost in India
The common effective treatments for bladder cancer in India include transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT), intravesical chemotherapy, and radical cystectomy cost, on average, 62% of the comparable cost of treatment in the United States of America.
It is again understood that the treatment costs of bladder cancer may slightly differ depending on the stage of the disease and the hospital where treatment is taken.
In India, the cost of chemotherapy with medication for the bladder comes to around 20000 INR to 35000 INR per session which is 400 USD.
Bladder cancer surgery is performed in India from $ 2000 which is approximately 9 lakh INR.
Radiation therapy overall is said to cost about 1.5 lakh to 2 lakh INR (1700 to 2200 USD).
It was also found out that TURBT surgery costs about about 5 lakh INR (2500 USD).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1. What are the main options for bladder cancer treatment?
A. The bladder cancer treatment options include surgery (TURBT or cystectomy), chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy, depending on the cancer stage.
Q2. Can bladder cancer be treated without surgery?
A. Yes, early-stage bladder cancer treatment may involve immunotherapy, chemotherapy, or radiation without surgery, but advanced cases often require surgical intervention.
Q3. Is chemotherapy always required for bladder cancer treatment?
A. No, chemotherapy is not always required. It is commonly used for advanced stages, muscle-invasive bladder cancer, or before/after surgery to reduce recurrence risk.
Q4. Can immunotherapy be an alternative to chemotherapy for bladder cancer?
A. Yes, immunotherapy is an option for certain bladder cancer cases, especially when chemotherapy is ineffective or not well-tolerated by the patient.
Q5. What are the side effects of bladder cancer treatment?
A. Side effects depend on the treatment type and may include fatigue, nausea, urinary issues, infections, or changes in bladder function, which can be managed with proper care.
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Author Bio:
Dr. Yashashree Joshi – MBBS, MD (Philippines)
Dr. Yashashree Joshi, MD, is a globally-trained oncologist with a robust academic background and extensive experience in pioneering cancer treatments. Dedicated to patient-centered care, she continually integrates the latest advancements in oncology to provide her patients with innovative and personalized treatment plans.
Content Medically Reviewed By MedicoExperts Editorial & Clinically Review Board
