While statistics show only about 25 percent of bladder cancer patients are women, a doctor at The University of Kansas Cancer Center said more women are being diagnosed.
Dr. Jeffrey Holzbeierlein, urologist, said increased smoking by women is the primary reason. But, Dr. Holzbeierlein said that bladder cancer should be evaluated if there is any persistent urinary tract problem.
He cites the case of Karla Boatright of Neosho, Mo. The 45-year-old thought she had a urinary tract infection that didn’t go away, but a trip to a urologist confirmed it was bladder cancer and she turned to Dr. Holzbeierlein at The University of Kansas Cancer Center for treatment.
The patient has been cancer-free for the last year after undergoing chemotherapy, and an innovative surgery where the cancerous bladder is removed and a new bladder is created from the intestine. She is grateful for the treatment but wishes the bladder cancer diagnosis had been more top of mind when she first started having troubles.
Dr. Holzbeierlein said other potential causes of bladder cancer are exposure to hazardous chemicals including dyes and petroleum products.
In addition to educating women about bladder cancer, patient Karla Boatright has established a web site with spiritual themed cancer items called one24boutique.com. “One24” was the date she received her surprise cancer diagnosis.
To see a KU Hospital video about the topic, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9hPArtm__D0
– Story from KU Hospital