Cancer in men: Heredity and increased consumption of tobacco products may explain why men are more prone to bladder cancer, experts said here on Sunday.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), bladder cancer is the 10th most common cancer worldwide and the fourth most prevalent cancer among men. There are approximately 550,000 new cases worldwide each year.
The disease develops when bladder tissue cells begin to differentiate uncontrollably, and the incidence of bladder cancer is higher in men than in women. About 21,000 new cases of bladder cancer are reported in India and its cases are increasing in the last few years.
A recent report by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) revealed that Delhi has the highest number of bladder cancer cases, followed by Thiruvananthapuram and Kolkata. Delhi also has the highest number of bladder cancer cases among women, followed by Mumbai and Mizoram.
Dr. Bhaskar Singh, HCG NCHRI said, “Bladder cancer ranks among the top 10 types of cancer affecting thousands of people annually in India. Though it can occur in both men and women, but due to genetics and lifestyle Men are more affected.” Cancer Centre-Nagpur told IANS.
“Tobacco consumption is a common reason for the increased incidence of bladder cancer in India. Another reason is exposure to aromatic amines and carbon black dust in the rubber, leather and dye industries. The risk is three to four times higher in smokers Bladder cancer compared to non-smokers,” said Dr (Brig) AK Dhar, Senior Consultant Medical and Hemato Oncology, American Oncology Institute, Gurugram.
Dhar said that the incidence of bladder cancer is four times higher in men than in women. Another factor behind the increased risk in men involves the role of sex hormones.
“It is believed that androgens promote bladder carcinogenesis in the advanced stage and estrogen inhibits bladder carcinogenesis,” Dhar told IANS. In addition, men who have undergone radiation therapy for prostate cancer also have an increased risk of bladder cancer, the expert said. However, changing certain lifestyle habits can reduce the risk of bladder cancer.
Quitting smoking is one of the most important things you can do, as smoking is one of the biggest risk factors for bladder cancer. “Tobacco is responsible for 40-50 per cent of bladder cancer. Quitting all forms of tobacco will help reduce bladder cancer,” said Dhar. Staying hydrated and avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals, such as those in some industrial or agricultural settings, may also help reduce risk.
Regular screening can also greatly increase the chances of successful treatment, as bladder cancer is often easier to treat in its early stages. “If you experience symptoms such as blood in your urine, pain during urination, or frequent urination, it is important to see a doctor right away. Many conditions can cause these symptoms, but bladder cancer is the most likely cause. It is important to rule out the cause,” Singh said.