It is high time we discussed bladder cancer more. Though it does not gain as much attention as some cancers when it hits the media, it is essential to know how we can care for ourselves against bladder cancer. Let’s look at ways to lower our risk factors and keep our bladder healthy. Fortunately, bladder cancer is among the tumors that much can be done to prevent merely by changing a few habits or knowing something.
Who is prone to bladder cancer?
Bladder cancer is a medical condition of tumors formed in the bladder resulting from unregulated growth. The bladder is an organ that holds the urine, and it contains specific tissues where this urine is held. These cells sometimes grow uncontrollably to cause cancer.
Cancer of this nature, however, is primarily common in elderly persons aged 55 years and above. It mainly hits males as opposed to females.
Some people are prone to bladder cancer. For example, many bladder cancer patients have one single cause of their disease: smoking. Others work with specific chemicals to which they are exposed. In some cases, infections of the bladder recur frequently, while in others, other members of their family have been diagnosed with bladder cancer. However, having one or more of such risk factors does not predestine one to have the disease and should be considered an indication to be more cautious and take protection measures.
These are the top things one must avoid in the case of bladder cancer.
Here’s a simple list of some of the most important things you can do to lower your chances of getting bladder cancer:
- Smoking: quit smoking, or do not smoke at all
- Drink plenty of water every day
- Eat lots of fruits and vegetables
- Protect yourself from chemicals at work
- Get regular check-ups
- Exercise regularly
- Limit processed foods
- Avoid holding your urine for too long
- Watch out for bladder infection symptoms
- Choose organic foods when possible
Why do you need to drink water?
Drinking water is the simplest and easiest way to prevent bladder cancer. Whenever you take water, you help your body wash out potentially destructive materials that may adversely affect your bladder. It would be like scrubbing your insides with your bladder. The longer it takes a given particular to spend in the bladder, the longer it will take to contribute to producing detrimental effects on the specific.
Drink at least eight glasses of water every day; the current average is five glasses. You’ll want even more if you work in hot conditions or exercise. Plain water is best, but other drinks can count, too—just try to avoid too many sugary or caffeinated beverages.
How do dietetics influence bladder cancer?
The food we consume plays a significant role in preventing bladder cancer. Fruits and vegetables are essential because some foods contain substances that will prevent damage to our cells.
Vegetables with/ contaminated with orange and yellow pigments, including carrots and squash, are highly recommended. Eating green living vegetables such as spinach and kale is also essential.
Try to consume less processed meat and fresh foods. Some research indicated people who consume lots of processed meat have a high risk of bladder cancer. Eat fresh ones, whole grains, and other proteins from fish or chicken.
What do we need to know about workplace exposure to chemicals?
Many develop bladder cancer due to occupational chemical exposure. If you work in painting, printing, or even in the textiles or chemical manufacturing industries, you may face exposure to substances that can increase your risk of developing cancer. The critical point is protecting yourself.
- Wear protective equipment, like gloves and masks.
- Wear all measures of protection at your workplace.
- If you need more clarification or are unsure about protection around something you are working on, question your supervisor.
It is better to ask than potentially harm your health.
How do we watch for the first signs of bladder problems?
In advance, one can quickly know the signs of bladder problems so that any issue can be detected sooner rather than later.
The most common sign is blood appearing in your urine-it may look red, pink, or rusty brown. Refrain from disregarding this sign, even if it only happens once or does not hurt. Other symptoms are frequent urge to urinate or pain during urination. It is better to visit your doctor if you find these.
What is the effect of exercise in preventing bladder cancer?
Regular exercise is pleasing to the heart and muscles and may help prevent bladder cancer. It keeps the whole body fit and can even boost the immune system. That is not to say you must run marathons or lift huge weights. Simple exercise, such as walking 30 minutes most days, may make a difference.
Try to find sports you are fond of. It might be gardening, dancing, or playing games with your children or grandchildren. The key is to keep moving and not be sedentary often.
Conclusion: Taking Care
Good bladder care should now become an essential part of your daily routine. The bladder should never be allowed to retain urine for an unnecessarily long time. When you feel the urge, go. This will help avoid the formation of bacteria in the bladder.
Hydrate: Pregnant women must ensure they take lots of fluids daily. It is recommended to restrict your intake of fluid, particularly caffeine and alcohol, in the evening because it tends to make you get up frequently to urinate. The most easily changeable risk factors for bladder cancer include smoking, so if you smoke, quit it.
However, remember these steps were about preventing cancer and keeping your entire body healthy. Start with minor changes and incrementally make better choices. Every positive step you take will keep your health intact.
REFERENCE LINKS:
https://winshipcancer.emory.edu/cancer-types-and-treatments/bladder-cancer/prevention.php
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/bladder-cancer/causes-risks-prevention/prevention.html
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5010611/
https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/types/bladder/bladder-prevention-risk-factors