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How Bladder Cancer is Treated in Elderly people?

Bladder cancer is one of the most common malignancies related to the urinary system. Most commonly, bladder cancer takes place in older adults, especially, patients above the age of 65. Therefore, according to a majority of uro oncology specialists in Kolkata, age has always been a greater risk factor for the development of bladder cancer.

However, this blog, brought to you by the best uro oncologist in Kolkata discusses how bladder cancer is managed and treated in elderly patients – read ahead!

Treatment options for bladder cancer in older people –

Surgery:

Surgical options for bladder cancer include transurethral resection of the bladder tumor (TURBT) for early-stage cancers and partial or radical cystectomy for more advanced cases. In elderly patients with localized disease and good overall health, surgery can be an effective treatment option for bladder cancer. However, radical cystectomy can be more challenging in older individuals due to potential complications and longer recovery times.

Chemotherapy:

It is important to note that chemotherapy may be used before or after surgery, or as the primary treatment for advanced or metastatic bladder cancer. For elderly patients who may not be candidates for aggressive surgery, chemotherapy alone or in combination with radiation therapy may be considered.

Radiation Therapy:

Radiation therapy can be used as a primary treatment for bladder cancer or in combination with other treatments. However, it is often considered for elderly patients who are not suitable candidates for surgery due to their overall health or other medical conditions and complications.

Immunotherapy:

Did you know that immunotherapy drugs, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, have shown promise in the treatment of bladder cancer? They work by boosting the immune system’s ability to fight cancer cells. Immunotherapy may be used as a treatment option, especially in elderly patients with advanced stages of bladder cancer.

Intravesical Therapy:

This is another localized treatment where medications are placed directly into the bladder through a catheter. It is typically used for superficial bladder cancer and may be an option for elderly patients with low-grade tumours.

There are so many other treatment options available for bladder cancer in older people. However, it is essential for elderly individuals with bladder cancer to have a comprehensive assessment by a medical team that includes the best uro oncology consultant in Kolkata. Discussions about potential side effects, quality of life, and expected outcomes should be part of the decision-making process to ensure that the treatment plan aligns with the patient’s requirements.