You Ask , They Answer
Q
: What are the key differences between prostate and bladder cancer ?
A
: Only men will get prostate cancer , while both men and women are susceptible to bladder cancer . Bladder cancer symptoms include blood in the urine , painful urination , and urinary frequency . Prostate cancer can be confused with bladder cancer in emergency settings , especially if the prostate cancer originates from the base of the prostate and the bladder cancer originates from the neck or triangle region of the bladder .
Prostate cancer can spread to the bladder , or other organs , through the bloodstream or lymphatic system . Prostate cancer that has spread to other areas of the body is unlikely to be cured , but it may still respond to treatment and may be controlled
Q
: Why are these 2 cancers more prominent in male ?
A
: It is due to both biological and environmental factors .
Men are more likely to smoke , which is the leading cause of bladder cancer . Tobacco smoke contains known carcinogens , and when inhaled , toxins from cigarettes enter the bloodstream and are excreted in urine , which sits in the bladder for hours . And then you have the exposure of chemicals ; smoke , rubber , paint , metal from their workplace . Dietary factors may also play a part ; males may have a tendency for greater consumption of processed meats , nuts , high sodium food and drinks , which has been linked to a higher risk of bladder cancer in several studies .
But age is the biggest risk factor for developing bladder cancer . Bladder cancer predominantly affects older adults . And it is more dominant in certain ethnicity and race , the causes of which remains unclear .
Q
: What kind of symptoms does each presents ?
A
: Blood in the urine is the most common symptom of bladder cancer and often the first sign that is noticed . One will have a pattern for a rushed and consistent urge to urine throughout the day , with a slight burning and pain discomfort during urination .
In some severe cases , patients will see the presence of blood in their semen , in the case of a prostate cancer .
In the early stages of bladder cancer there is usually minimal or no associated pain . Notably , there may be long periods ( weeks or even months ) of clear urine in between episodes of blood .
Prostate cancer often doesn ’ t cause symptoms in its early stages . Some signs and pattern of a bladder symptoms will occur as well as loss of appetite and erectile issues . Difficulty of getting or maintaining an erection , or painful ejaculation . As mentioned , you might also notice blood in your semen , known as hematospermia and in this instance , a visit to a urologist is imminent .
Q
: What do I need to do to decrease the risk of having these cancer ?
A
: Consult a urologist as soon as these symptoms are experienced , at least to get a diagnosis first . Early detection of bladder cancer increases the chance of a favorable prognosis . More importantly , change your lifestyle . Maintain a healthy balance diet , quit smoking and reduce enviromental exposure .
It is also important to note , to maintain the right anount of water and citric acid in your system , which is often easily confused as Vitamin C . Consult your doctor .
Dr Colin Teo
Senior Consulting Urologist
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