The advancements made in the medical field are considered to be one of the most impressive achievements of the 21st century. Diseases that had no cure 50 years ago are now being well-treated. However, cancer is one disease that scientists still struggle to find a cure and a source. With this latest research, there seems to be hope in early detection for this cancer which could save many lives.
Bladder cancer is the fourth most common cancer that happens among men and about 50% of cases are preventable. According to a recent study by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, bladder cancer can be detected ten years prior to the diagnosis just through a simple urine test with biomarkers. The test works by detecting the genetic mutation in the organ.
In the research, the scientists took urine samples from a test group of 50,000 Iranians aged 40 to 75. Based on New Atlas, the findings taken from 131 individuals showed that 30 individuals from the test group were diagnosed with cancer after ten years. Out of that, 14 people had the mutation in their genes which would lead to cancer. This test could be really helpful as bladder cancer is usually detected at the very last minute which makes survival chances really small. Early detection saves lives!
As of now, the only detection method is cytoscopy where a camera is inserted into the patient’s bladder for confirmation when symptoms are found. The symptoms for bladder cancer include:
- Blood in the urine
- Loss of bladder control
- Pain in the pelvis area
- Swollen feet
- Weight loss
This cancer is linked to smoking habits and also exposure to chemicals materials in plastic from the workplace. The treatment for bladder cancer includes surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy.
If this method can be used widely, it can definitely save lots of lives and be cost-effective too. This is definitely a path-breaking discovery in the field of oncology and we would like to congratulate the scientists behind it.
Also read: Māsian Woman Knits Free Breasts Prostheses For Cancer Patients To Help Them Feel Whole Again!
