Bahrain has recorded a notable decline in bladder cancer deaths over the past three decades, however, doctors say the number of new cases remains high and are warning that smokers are especially at risk of developing the illness.
A new regional analysis using Global Burden of Disease data shows that Bahrain has one of the highest age-standardised bladder cancer incidence rates in the Middle East, despite significant declines in death rates and disability over the past 30 years.
The study, titled ‘The burden of bladder cancer in the Mena region: a three-decade analysis’ was conducted by an international group of researchers including from Cyprus and Türkiye, and has been published in the Cancer Treatment and Research Communications journal.
Researchers say the trend likely reflects stronger healthcare systems and earlier treatment, while continued exposure to major risk factors, particularly tobacco use, is driving new diagnoses.
The study estimates that Bahrain recorded an age-standardised bladder cancer incidence rate of 13.8 cases per 100,000 people in 2021, placing it among the highest in the region.
At the same time, death rates linked to the disease have fallen by 36.5 per cent since 1990 to 5.1 per 100,000, a shift researchers attribute to improved access to care and earlier intervention.
“We are diagnosing and operating on bladder tumours almost every alternate month,” King Hamad American Mission Hospital urology consultant Dr Monish Cherian told the GDN.
“Many more cases are likely presenting to government hospitals, especially considering World Health Organisation figures place bladder cancer incidence in Bahrain at around 11 to 11.5pc.
“In Bahrain, bladder cancer affects men far more than women, with a male-to-female ratio of about 4.4 to one.
“Most bladder cancers we see are transitional cell carcinomas.”
The study noted that controlling key risk factors, such as smoking, blood glucose levels and exposure to chemical carcinogens is essential for reducing the future disease burden.
It also called for greater emphasis on screening and preventative measures, in light of an ageing population, which can help lower the economic burden and improve the quality of life for patients.
“Tobacco use remains the biggest risk factor,” Dr Cherian confirmed.
“Smoking cigarettes, cigars or sheesha is linked to around 50 to 65pc of bladder cancer cases, while passive or second-hand smoke accounts for about 22pc.
“There is also limited evidence on other risk factors. A small study cited by the Cleveland Clinic showed a higher incidence of bladder cancer among people who use hair dye regularly, including barbers and hair stylists who are exposed on a frequent basis.”
Researchers called on policymakers and healthcare providers to prioritise targeted strategies tailored to their specific regional needs, while also engaging in cross-country collaborations and sharing expertise to improve control of risk factors, through public health campaigns.
Dr Cherian also noted the importance of early diagnosis.
“If bladder cancer is detected before the tumour invades the bladder muscle, cure rates can reach between 90 and 95pc,” he added.
“The classic symptom is painless blood in the urine, sometimes with clots. In some cases it may be associated with pain.
“Other warning signs include needing to pass urine frequently or suddenly, difficulty controlling urination and occasionally lower abdominal pain.
“Any case of blood in the urine needs proper evaluation. This usually starts with an ultrasound scan and sometimes urine cytology. The definitive diagnosis is made using cystoscopy and biopsy.”
naman@gdnmedia.bh
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