Ureteral cancer: How to prevent & treat the disease

Define

The ureters consist of two tubes about 25-30 cm long connecting the kidney to the bladder, and are responsible for carrying urine down to the bladder for elimination.

Most cases are urothelial carcinoma – a type of cell that also lines the inside of the bladder and renal pelvis. Because they share the same cell type, ureteral cancer and bladder cancer have many similar characteristics, and people with either disease have a high risk of developing the other disease.

Symptom

In the early stages, the disease may not cause obvious symptoms. As the tumor develops, the patient may experience:

• Hematuria (pink, red, or dark brown urine)
• Pain in the lower back or pain on one side of the waist
• Pain or burning when urinating
• Prolonged fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss

Reason

The exact cause of ureteral cancer has not yet been determined. The disease forms when DNA mutations cause cells to proliferate uncontrollably, forming tumors that can invade surrounding tissues or metastasize to other organs.

Some factors that increase the risk of disease include:

• Advanced age, most patients are diagnosed at the age of 70-80.
• Have ever had bladder cancer or kidney cancer.
• Smoking.
• Long-term exposure to certain chemicals in the work environment.
• Family history of Lynch syndrome or certain hereditary cancer syndromes.
• Recurrent urinary infections or chronic irritation of the urinary tract may also increase the risk.

Treatment

Treatment options depend on tumor size, disease stage, location of damage, and kidney function.

Surgery

Surgery is the main treatment method. Depending on each case, the doctor can cut the ureter containing the tumor and reconnect the ureter or cut the entire ureter and kidney on the damaged side if the tumor is large or has invaded.

Whole body treatment

Some cases may require chemotherapy or immunotherapy. These methods are often considered when the cancer progresses, recurs, or is at high risk after surgery.

Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy is rarely used as a primary treatment but may be prescribed in some cases to control symptoms or in combination with other methods.

Prevent

There is no way to absolutely prevent the disease. However, some lifestyle changes that may help reduce your risk or increase your chances of treatment include:

• Don’t smoke or quit if you smoke.
• Comply with protective measures if working in an environment with toxic chemicals.
• Eat lots of vegetables and fruits and maintain a balanced diet.
• Get a physical examination when there are unusual signs such as hematuria or persistent back pain.

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