I had radiotherapy for prostate cancer in 2011, 74Gys and eight years of hormone therapy!
I was diagnosed with localised MIBC in November 2022.
I have had three cycles of chemotherapy and was offered a radical cystectomy, however, the senior consultant and others, advised me that due to the radiotherapy, my bowel wall is very thin and there could be additional complications, including having to construct two stomas.
I declined surgery due to complications!
I have written to our local MP asking him to consult with the Minister for Health, asking for an alternative method of treatment for patients who are too frail to have a RC or Radiotherapy.
Due to my previous treatment, 74 Gys, of radiotherapy, I would put myself in this category.
Dendritic Cell Therapy sounds to be an option. Have the NHS any future plans to practise this treatment.
Why can't there be a mechanism to prevent metastasis for localised MIBC?
I would like to pay tribute to anyone living with a stoma.
Hello hollyfish and welcome to the group, although sorry to hear of your situation. I had radiotherapy for MIBC but we know it can be difficult if you have had any form of pelvic radiotherapy before. We know that bladder cancer has little funding compared to other cancers even though it is one of the most common. Very little has changed over years regarding treatment and research. According to my oncologist Dendritic Cell treatment has not had a great deal of evidence. I hope you get a reply from your MP. we would be interested to know of any response. Best wishes.
Hi hollyfish . Just a few facts if you do get in a discussion with your MP. Although not many people have heard of bladder cancer, it is always in the top ten of nearly two hundred cancer types. Top five or six for men. Bladder cancer has very little research funding compared to others. GPs often miss the symptoms especially in ladies who are regularly diagnosed late. Bladder cancer is one of the most expensive cancers for the NHS to treat because of long term follow up. Awareness is the key to early diagnosis and there is not enough of it . I wish you well. Best wishes.
