Proton beam therapy is an advanced form of external radiotherapy that uses high-energy proton beams instead of photon x-ray beams or electrons. Carefully measured doses of protons are delivered to the precise area needing treatment, using the latest IBA ProteusONE technology. This ensures that the delivery of proton beam therapy is highly accurate and prevents the risk of radiation reaching surrounding healthy tissue.
Radiotherapy is used to kill and destroy cancer cells. It utilises radiation in the form of high-energy x-rays, known as photons, to kill and damage the cancerous cells and prevent their growth and reproduction. It can be used as a non-surgical option to treat cancer, and it can also be used to shrink a tumour or in combination with other treatments.
The Rutherford Cancer Centres and Elekta are bringing the next generation of personalised adaptive radiotherapy technology to oncology centres across the UK, with the new MR-linac Elekta Unity now available at the Rutherford Cancer Centre North West in Liverpool.
Blog post by Rutherford Cancer Centres
So, what exactly is bladder cancer and who’s most at risk?
Bladder cancer is the fourth most common cancer in men in the UK and the seventh most common overall. There are different kinds, but the most common is urothelial bladder cancer, also known as transitional cell carcinoma (TCC). This starts in the lining of the bladder. It can affect anyone of any age, male or female, but it’s more common in men over 60. It’s also more likely if you smoke (smoking is thought to be responsible for around 40% of bladder cancers). And, you’re also more likely to be affected if you come into contact with certain chemicals in your workplace, or you’ve been exposed to radiation in the past.
And the most common symptom?
The most common symptom to look out for is blood in your urine, even just a small amount. It might come and go, and it’s often painless. It might happen only once, then go away, but you should still get it checked out by your GP as soon as possible. Less common symptoms include needing to pee more often, having a sudden need to go, and/or having pain or discomfort when you do.
The symptoms of bladder cancer are, in some cases, similar to those of a urinary tract infection (UTI), so your GP will usually start by carrying out a urine test. If it is a UTI, you’ll typically need a course of antibiotics which should sort it out. But if there’s no sign of infection, or your symptoms carry on for several weeks, your GP may arrange for you to have some other tests to check for bladder cancer. They might refer you to a urologist (a specialist in urinary, bladder and kidney conditions). Tests include a CT scan (a series of X-rays that create a 3D picture) which checks for cancer near the bladder or other parts of the body.
Why do we need to be more aware?
Bladder cancer isn’t rare. But, due to lack of awareness, many people don’t know what to look for, meaning the early signs can be missed. Bladder Cancer Awareness Month aims to call public attention to the disease so it can be diagnosed and treated earlier, improving the chances of a better outcome. The campaign is also targeting healthcare professionals and governments to encourage more investment in research and new treatments.
So here are our top tips:
If you would like advice on the bladder cancer treatments provided at the Rutherford Cancer Centres, please contact us.
If you'd like to speak to us about any of the treatments we offer please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Call us on 0800 210 0402 or
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