Bladder Cancer Treatment in India

Bladder cancer treatment in India combines affordability, quality, and accessibility, making it a premier choice for patients worldwide. With various types of bladder cancer and treatment options available, India's renowned medical facilities and expert specialists provide excellent outcomes at a fraction of the cost compared to other countries. This affordability, coupled with high standards of care, has positioned India as a leading destination for medical tourism, attracting patients seeking effective bladder cancer therapy with minimal financial burden.

Haematuria, or blood in the urine, is often the initial sign of bladder cancer, typically painless and presents as pale pink, brown, or crimson urine. Sometimes, blood may not be visible, but urinalysis can detect small amounts. Changes in urinary patterns, such as increased frequency, burning sensation, or urgency, are common early symptoms, often mistaken for other conditions like UTIs or prostate issues in men. However, a doctor's visit is necessary for evaluation.

• Pelvic discomfort
• Inability to urinate
• Inflammation of the feet
• Bone ache
• Unintentional weight loss

• Age: The cancer risk increases with age, particularly after 55 years.
• Smoking: Tobacco use significantly elevates the risk, with smokers being four times more likely to develop bladder cancer.
• Gender: Men face a three to four times higher risk compared to women.
• Arsenic exposure: Drinking water containing arsenic raises bladder cancer risk, influenced by location and water source.
• Chemical exposure: Certain industrial chemicals and naturally occurring compounds heighten the risk.
• Family history and genetics: Those with a family history or specific genetic changes are at increased risk.
• Chronic conditions: Long-term urinary tract infections, kidney/bladder stones, and catheter use raise susceptibility.
• Treatment effects: Chemotherapy and pelvic radiation therapy can irritate the bladder lining, Increasing the risk.
• Schistosomiasis: Infection by parasitic worms, common in certain regions, is a risk factor.

• Chemotherapy: Starting USD 270 per session (Indian Rupees Approx. 19,000)
• Surgery: Starting USD 2700 (Indian Rupees Approx. 1,90,000/-)
• Radiation Therapy: Starting USD 3,100 (Indian Rupees Approx. 2,20,000/-)
• Trans-Urethral Bladder Tumour Resection (TURBT): Starting USD 3,600 (Indian Rupees Approx. 2,50,000/-)

Diagnosing bladder cancer involves various tests and techniques to detect abnormalities in urine and the bladder:

• Urinalysis: This simple test checks for blood and other chemicals using chemical dipsticks.
• Urine cytology: Microscopic examination of urine samples to identify pre-cancerous or malignant cells.
• Cystoscopy: A procedure where a cystoscope is inserted through the urethra into the bladder to examine its inner lining.
• Biopsy: If abnormalities are found during cystoscopy, a biopsy may be performed to remove and test bladder tissue for malignancy.
• Imaging scans: These scans provide detailed images of the bladder and surrounding tissues to assess cancer progression:
1. Intravenous pyelogram (IVP): Uses dye and X-rays to visualize the urinary tract.
2. CT scan: Provides detailed cross-sectional images.
3. Ultrasonography: Uses sound waves to create images.
4. MRI: Uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images.
5. Bone scan: Detects potential spread of cancer to the bone.

Bladder cancer treatment in India offers a variety of options tailored to each patient's condition and preferences:

Surgery

• Trans-Urethral Bladder Tumour Resection (TURBT): Removes abnormal tissues using a cystoscope.
• Cystectomy: Partial or complete removal of the bladder, depending on cancer stage.
• Urinary Diversion: Creates alternative pathways for urine flow, including incontinent, continent, or neobladder procedures.

Chemotherapy

• Intravesical Chemotherapy: Direct injection into the bladder for early-stage cancer.
• Systemic Chemotherapy: Oral or intravenous drugs to target cancer cells throughout the body.

Radiation Therapy

• External Beam Radiation: Targets tumours from outside the body.
• Internal-Beam Radiation/Brachytherapy: Uses radioactive implants inserted near or into the tumour.

Biological Therapy (Immunotherapy):

• Boosts the immune system's ability to detect and fight cancer cells using medications like the BCG vaccine or atezolizumab, avelumab, and nivolumab.
• These treatments are selected based on cancer stage, patient health, and individual preferences, ensuring comprehensive and effective care for bladder cancer patients in India.