Insights from Dr. Rahul Jena, Uro-Oncologist & Robotic Surgeon, Bhubaneswar
Introduction: Bladder Cancer Awareness and Evolving Treatments
Bladder cancer is one of the leading urological cancers worldwide, affecting thousands of men and women each year. In India, awareness about bladder cancer is still growing, and many patients are diagnosed only when the disease has already progressed. For this reason, spreading knowledge during Bladder Cancer Awareness Month becomes vital—not only for early detection but also for understanding the treatment options available.
When a patient is diagnosed with bladder cancer, one of the first and most pressing concerns is: “What treatment is right for me?” Traditionally, chemotherapy has been the gold standard for treating bladder cancer, and it continues to be widely used because of its proven track record in controlling the disease. However, in recent years, a new option—immunotherapy—has gained attention. This newer treatment approach has changed the way doctors and patients look at cancer therapy, as it works differently from chemotherapy and offers hope to certain groups of patients.
But here’s the important point: not every patient is eligible for every treatment. Choosing between chemotherapy and immunotherapy is not a simple decision—it requires careful evaluation by specialists, considering the patient’s overall health, stage of cancer, kidney function, and even financial circumstances.
To help clear the confusion, Dr. Rahul Jena, Consultant Uro-Oncologist at Bagchi Shri Shankara Cancer Center, Bhubaneswar, explains the differences between chemotherapy and immunotherapy, their effectiveness, patient eligibility, and how treatment plans are made. His insights provide valuable guidance to patients and families who are navigating this difficult journey.
Chemotherapy: The Conventional Approach
For decades, chemotherapy has been the backbone of bladder cancer treatment. It works by using powerful drugs to kill fast-growing cancer cells, often administered before or after surgery to reduce recurrence risks.
Chemotherapy is still widely used and remains effective in controlling bladder cancer, especially for patients who may not be eligible for newer treatments. The established protocols are well-studied, accessible, and available in most cancer care centers.
Immunotherapy: A New Era in Cancer Treatment
Immunotherapy represents a newer, advanced approach to bladder cancer treatment. Unlike chemotherapy, which directly attacks cancer cells, immunotherapy boosts the body’s immune system to identify and fight cancer more effectively.
Although promising, immunotherapy is not suitable for every patient. Eligibility depends on several factors, including:
Overall health condition
Kidney function and other organ health
Cancer stage and spread
Accessibility and financial feasibility
Eligibility and Real-World Challenges
Dr. Rahul Jena highlights that not all bladder cancer patients qualify for chemotherapy or immunotherapy. For example, patients with kidney-related issues often face challenges with chemotherapy. Similarly, immunotherapy, though highly effective in select cases, is expensive and not widely available in all hospitals across India.
Financial constraints, hospital infrastructure, and patient health profiles play an important role in deciding the right treatment plan.
Multidisciplinary Decision-Making
Cancer care is never a one-size-fits-all approach. Dr. Jena emphasizes that treatment decisions are made by a multidisciplinary team, which includes uro-oncologists, medical oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists. This ensures that every patient receives a tailored plan based on their health, needs, and affordability.
Reassurance for Patients
While immunotherapy is a breakthrough, it does not replace chemotherapy entirely. Dr. Jena reassures patients that traditional chemotherapy protocols remain highly effective and are a proven option in managing bladder cancer. For patients who cannot access or afford immunotherapy, chemotherapy continues to provide strong results.
Conclusion: Personalized Cancer Care Matters
Both chemotherapy and immunotherapy have their place in bladder cancer treatment. The best approach depends on patient health, cancer stage, and resource availability. With expert guidance from specialists like Dr. Rahul Jena, patients can make informed decisions about their treatment journey.
Bladder cancer awareness is not just about knowing the disease—it’s about understanding the options and choosing the best possible care for a healthier future.