Bladder cancer is a concerning health issue, with an estimated 82,000 new cases and nearly 17,000 deaths predicted for this year. Men are at a higher risk of developing the disease, with Frank Sinatra, Jack Lemmon, Telly Savalas, and U.S. Senator Hubert Humphrey among those who have been affected. Early detection is key to successful treatment of bladder cancer, and symptoms include blood in the urine, frequent urination, and pelvic or back pain.
At UC San Diego Health, urologists are utilizing innovative technology called blue light cystoscopy to detect and monitor bladder cancer. This technology is commonly found in electronic devices like computer monitors and smartphones and involves inserting a special dye into the bladder before using a camera with white light to examine the area. By switching to blue light, cancer cells that were once invisible become fluorescent pink when combined with the dye, enabling better detection rates and accurate diagnosis.
Dr. Amirali Salmasi, a urologist at UC San Diego Health emphasizes the importance of early detection and aggressive treatment when faced with bladder cancer. This FDA-approved technology can be used in both clinic settings and operating rooms to aid in new diagnoses and ongoing monitoring of patients with the disease. By shining a light on the problem, medical professionals can provide more effective care for those battling bladder cancer.
