Bladder Cancer Treatment in Sarasota, FL
Bladder cancer is the fourth most common cancer in men. It’s estimated that about 59,000 men are diagnosed with bladder cancer each year, as of 2016. Unlike some other cancers that tend to be more genetically caused, like prostate cancer, bladder cancer can be preventable. However, if not treated early, bladder cancer can easily spread to lymph nodes of the pelvis, abdomen, or even the neck. If you believe you may have bladder cancer or have been diagnosed, contact Dr. Kaplon to schedule a consultation at his urology clinic in Sarasota. Dr. Kaplon is fellowship trained in robotic and laparoscopic surgery and has extensive experience treating urologic cancer with minimally invasive surgery. To schedule your bladder cancer consultation and treatment, please call (941) 917-5400 today.
What Are the Risk Factors of Bladder Cancer?
There are risk factors for bladder cancer that can be avoided, and some that cannot. Risk factors include:
- Family history
- Age (most men are diagnosed over the age of 70)
- Smoking
- Exposure to certain chemicals, such as those in dyes, paint, and textiles
- Being a white male
Age and smoking are actually the two biggest risk factors of bladder cancer. Quitting smoking alone can decrease your chances of getting bladder cancer, along with other medical issues and cancers. The biggest cause of bladder cancer is your body being exposed to various chemicals that can’t be properly filtered out through your kidney. This includes chemicals in cigarettes, cigars, and pipe tobacco, as well as being exposed to other chemicals such as those in the print or textile industry for people working near dyes and paint.
What Are the Symptoms of Bladder Cancer?
Symptoms of bladder cancer include:
- Blood in urine
- Frequent urination
- Painful urination
- Back and pelvic pain
The most common symptom is blood in urine. Most of these symptoms can also indicate a urinary tract infection and other urinary disorders, therefore it’s important to talk with Dr. Kaplon about all symptoms you are having.
How is Bladder Cancer Diagnosed & Treated?
If you experience these symptoms and have multiple risk factors, chances are Dr. Kaplon will conduct a test. Some general tests include a urine analysis and biopsy. In some cases, Dr. Kaplon will conduct a cystoscopy (inserting a tube with a camera into your bladder), or imaging tests. However, imaging tests are usually done once bladder cancer is confirmed and staging needs to be determined.
Treatment for bladder cancer, once confirmed, will most likely be surgery. Whether it’s surgery to just remove the tumor or to remove the tumor and surrounding tissue depends on the staging of bladder cancer. This surgery is called a cystectomy. Dr. Kaplon uses da Vinci robotic to perform a minimally invasive cystectomy. In some extreme cases, the entire bladder needs to be removed. However if caught early enough, immunotherapy or radiation therapy options may be available.
Schedule an Appointment for Bladder Cancer Treatment in Sarasota, FL
Dr. Kaplon, a fellowship-trained expert in robotic and laparoscopic surgery, possesses extensive experience in treating urologic cancer through minimally invasive techniques. With his knowledge and cutting-edge technology, you can rest assured that you’ll receive top-notch care to meet to your specific needs. Don’t delay—schedule your bladder cancer consultation and treatment today! Regain control over your health by calling (941) 917-5400 and schedule an appointment at our urology clinic in Sarasota. Early detection and intervention are vital in fighting bladder cancer, so don’t hesitate to take this important step towards a brighter, healthier future. Act now—your well-being is our priority!