Ureteral Cancer – Symptoms and Causes
Overview
Ureteral cancer begins when cells in the ureters start growing abnormally. The ureters are thin tubes that move urine from the kidneys to the bladder. These tubes are part of the body’s urinary system.
This cancer is rare and appears most frequently in older people. Those who have had bladder cancer face a higher risk of developing ureteral cancer. This connection exists because the same type of cells line both the ureters and bladder.
Key Facts:
- Rare condition affecting the urinary tract
- More common in elderly populations
- Connected to bladder cancer risk
People diagnosed with ureteral cancer typically need monitoring for bladder cancer as well. The main treatment approach is surgery, although doctors may recommend other options like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy in specific cases.
The similar cell structure between the ureters and bladder explains why these cancers are closely related. Medical professionals consider this relationship when creating treatment plans.
Signs and Symptoms
Ureteral cancer often shows several key warning signs.
You might notice blood in your urine that makes it look red, pink, or brown like cola.
Back pain is another common symptom that affects many patients. Some people experience pain or burning when they urinate.
Weight loss without trying to lose weight can also be a warning sign. Many patients report feeling extremely tired or fatigued.
When You Should Contact a Healthcare Provider
Make an appointment with your doctor if you notice any symptoms that continue for more than a few days or cause you concern.
Don’t ignore blood in your urine, ongoing back pain, or unexplained weight loss, as early detection is important for better outcomes.
Causes
The exact cause of ureteral cancer remains unknown. This cancer begins when cells in the ureter—the tube connecting kidneys to bladder—start to change and grow abnormally.
DNA changes in ureter cells play a key role in cancer development. Normally, DNA gives cells instructions for controlled growth and natural death. However, when DNA mutations occur, these instructions become altered.
These genetic changes tell ureter cells to:
- Multiply rapidly without control
- Survive when they should naturally die
- Continue growing beyond normal limits
This uncontrolled cell growth creates a mass of abnormal cells called a tumor. As these cancer cells multiply, they can:
- Invade surrounding healthy tissue
- Damage normal ureter function
- Eventually break away from the original site
When cancer cells separate and move to distant body parts, this is called metastasis. The cancer has then spread beyond its original location to affect other organs or tissues.
Scientists continue to study why these DNA changes occur in some people but not others.
Risk Factors
Several factors can raise your chance of developing ureteral cancer:
- Age: This cancer becomes more common as people get older. Most diagnoses occur in people in their 70s and 80s.
- Previous Urinary Tract Cancers: If you’ve had bladder or kidney cancer before, you face a higher risk of developing ureteral cancer.
- Tobacco Use: Smoking increases the risk of ureteral cancer and other urinary tract cancers, like kidney and bladder cancer.
- Chemical Exposure: Working with certain industrial chemicals has been linked to higher ureteral cancer rates.
- Family Cancer History: A strong family history of cancer may suggest genetic factors. Some inherited conditions like Lynch syndrome can increase the risk of developing ureteral cancer along with other cancers.
Ways to Lower Your Risk
Avoid Tobacco Products
Smoking increases your risk of ureteral cancer. If you don’t smoke, it’s best not to start.
For smokers trying to quit, many options can help. Talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs, medications, and other support that might work for you.
Breaking this habit is one of the most important steps you can take for your health.
Handle Chemicals Safely
If you work with chemicals, always follow safety guidelines carefully.
Wear protective gear like gloves and masks when needed. Make sure your workplace has good ventilation.
Following proper safety protocols helps prevent harmful exposure that could increase cancer risk.
Eat Colorful Foods
A diet rich in different fruits and vegetables may help protect against ureteral cancer. These foods contain antioxidants that can help fight cell damage.
Try to include various colors of produce in your meals each day. Red tomatoes, orange carrots, green spinach, and blue berries all offer different helpful nutrients.
