Bladder cancer treatment in Turkey has positioned itself as a highly recommended option due to its advanced medical technologies, expert healthcare professionals, and competitive pricing. As a premier destination for medical tourism, Turkey offers a range of treatments suited to various stages and demographics affected by bladder cancer.
Understanding Bladder Cancer
Bladder cancer, the 7th most common cancer in men and the 11th most common in both genders, primarily affects the bladder, a hollow organ in the lower pelvis that stores urine.
What is Bladder Cancer?
Bladder cancer typically begins in the cells lining the inside of the bladder. Notably, the majority of cases (75%) exhibit low-stage pathologies (non-muscle-invasive cancer), which can be efficiently managed with endoscopic surgeries. However, the recurrent nature of bladder cancer necessitates vigilant and continuous monitoring through imaging techniques like tomography, and ultrasonography, and endoscopic procedures like cystoscopy.
Risk Factors and Incidence
Bladder cancer bears several risk factors, with smoking and exposure to carcinogenic chemicals being the most significant. Men are more susceptible to bladder cancer, particularly those working in industries involving chemicals, paints, or petroleum. Genetic predisposition, certain infections, bladder stones, chronic irritation, and previous radiation therapy are also noteworthy contributors.
Symptoms of Bladder Cancer
Early symptoms often include:
- Hematuria (blood in urine)
- Urinary urgency and frequency
- Painful urination
- In the later stages, symptoms may extend to weight loss, fatigue, kidney failure symptoms, and widespread pain.
Spread and Metastasis
Bladder cancer typically metastasizes to the lungs, bones, and liver via lymphatic and hematogenous routes, making early detection crucial for successful treatment outcomes.
Bladder Cancer Diagnosis
Cystoscopy
The primary diagnostic method is cystoscopy, which involves using a camera to visually examine the bladder. This procedure allows for biopsy sampling and is complemented by urine cytology and imaging techniques such as CT and MR.
Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor (TURBT)
TURBT involves removing bladder tumours using endoscopic resection under anaesthesia, which is essential for biopsy and pathway exploration.
Imaging Tests
Imaging studies, including CT, MR, and PET scans, help to stage the cancer and monitor its progression or recurrence.
Bladder Cancer Removal in Turkey
Radical Cystectomy
For muscle-invasive bladder cancer, radical cystectomy remains the cornerstone treatment. Specifically, this involves the removal of the bladder along with adjacent organs and lymph nodes, depending on gender-specific anatomy.
Post-Surgical Care
Post-cystectomy, urinary diversion techniques such as forming an artificial bladder from intestinal segments facilitate urine passage.
Bladder Cancer Treatment Modalities in Turkey
Various treatment approaches are utilized based on the cancer’s stage and patient-specific factors:
Surgical Options
- Partial Cystectomy: Suitable for localized, low-grade tumours.
- Radical Cystectomy: Preferred for invasive cancers.
Radiation Therapy
Employing high-energy rays, radiation therapy targets and eradicates cancer cells through external beam radiation.
Chemotherapy
Administered systemically or intravesically, chemotherapy utilizes drugs to stop cancer cell proliferation. Commonly used agents include cisplatin, gemcitabine, and mitomycin.
Immunotherapy
Utilizing the body’s immune response, agents like BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guérin) are administered directly into the bladder to combat cancer cells.
Targeted Therapy
Drugs like enfortumab vedotin and erdafitinib are prescribed based on specific cancer biomarkers that inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
Bladder Cancer Staging and Follow-Up
Bladder cancer is staged from 0 to IV, with staging guiding treatment strategies:
- Early Stages (0-I): Often managed with TURBT and possible intravesical therapy.
- Advanced Stages (II-IV): Require a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy.
Ongoing Monitoring
Patients undergo periodic cystoscopy, urine cytology, and imaging tests to monitor for recurrence and assess treatment efficacy.
Comorbidities and Treatment Alternatives
Patients with significant comorbidities or those opting to avoid cystectomy may consider multimodal therapy, which combines chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and TURBT. Consequently, patient consultation with medical oncologists is essential to evaluate the feasibility and potential side effects of this approach.
Bladder Cancer Treatment Cost in Turkey
Radical cystectomy costs in Turkey range from 6000 to 10,000 USD, making it a cost-effective option compared to Western countries without compromising on quality of care.
How Avicenna International Hospital Can Help
Avicenna International Hospital in Turkey specializes in state-of-the-art bladder cancer treatment, offering comprehensive services from diagnosis through post-treatment care. Moreover, our team of experienced specialists ensures personalized, high-quality care tailored to each patient’s needs. So, contact us today to learn more about our bladder cancer treatment programs in Turkey and begin your journey to better health.
The latest treatments include advanced immunotherapy and targeted therapy drugs that specifically target cancer cell mechanisms.
Stage 1 bladder cancer is typically treatable with TURBT, possibly followed by intravesical chemotherapy or immunotherapy.
While the general treatment protocols remain similar, radical cystectomy involves removal of adjacent organs specific to the patient’s sex (e.g., prostate in men, part of the vagina in women).
Yes, Turkey is popular for its advanced medical facilities, experienced specialists, and affordable treatment options.
