Can I to Take Radiation Therapy for Bladder Cancer?
Q: I was diagnosed with bladder cancer one and a half months ago. Can I take radiation therapy?
A: Radiation therapy is a type of treatment for bladder cancer. But it’s not for all people with the cancer. The patient’s age, health condition and other factors have to be taken into consideration.
This treatment involves using high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It’s a lot like getting an X-ray — only much stronger. It doesn’t hurt, so there is no need to be afraid of it. You might need to get radiation 5 days a week for several weeks.
Radiation therapy is a relatively safe and easy treatment for bladder, but not every patient fits for it. If your bladder cancer has developed into a serious stage, it won’t be effective for you. Your doctor may recommend it for one of the following reasons:
You have early-stage bladder cancer
You have early-stage cancer but can’t have surgery
As a follow-up to TURBT or partial bladder removal surgery
To prevent or treat symptoms of advanced bladder cancer
Related FAQs:
How to Take Care of People with Bladder Cancer after Surgery?