Bladder Cancer - an Actos Side Effect
Recent studies show that long-term use of the diabetes drug Actos can cause bladder cancer. The longer Actos is used, the greater the chance of developing bladder cancer, especially among men. This increased risk is the basis for bringing Actos lawsuits.
Types of Bladder Cancer Caused by Actos
As its name indicates, bladder cancer is a cancer that starts in the bladder. There are three types of bladder cancer, all of which can be caused by Actos. The most common form is called transitional cell carcinoma. This cancer begins in the cells that make up the innermost lining of the bladder wall. Transitional cell carcinoma accounts for 90% of all cases of bladder cancer.
The other two types of bladder cancer are squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. Squamous cell carcinoma begins in the thin flat cells that typically form as a result of bladder inflammation or irritation over an extended period of time. Adenocarcinoma begins in the cells of the bladder that make and release mucus and other fluids.
Risk Factors for Bladder Cancer in Addition to Actos
Studies now clearly establish that long-term use of Actos increases the risk of bladder cancer, with the risk being greater the longer Actos is used, and the greater the cumulative dose. In addition to using Actos for more than one year, the following things also can increase your risk of bladder cancer:
- Chemical Exposure at Work. Dye workers, rubber workers, aluminum workers, truck drivers, and pesticide applicators are most at risk. Arsenic exposure in particular has a high association with bladder cancer.
- Chemotherapy. In particular, the chemotherapy drug cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan).
Symptoms of Bladder Cancer
If you have taken Actos for more than one year, the following symptoms may be a sign of bladder cancer:
- Blood in the urine (hematuria). The blood may be visible to the naked eye (gross hematuria) or visible only under a microscope.
PLEASE NOTE: Just because you have these symptoms does not mean you have bladder cancer. These symptoms appear with a number of other illnesses, such as urinary tract infections, benign tumors, and bladder stones.
Diagnosis of Bladder Cancer
Various screening tests are used to diagnose bladder cancer. The most common are medical interview, physical examination, urinalysis, urine cytology, and cystoscopy. Cystoscopy is a type of endoscopy. A very narrow tube with a light and camera at the end is used to examine the inside of the bladder. The tube is inserted into the bladder through the urethra. A biopsy can be taken during this procedure. PLEASE NOTE: There are risks associated with a cystoscopy, so do not demand that your physician perform one just because you have been taking Actos.
Attorneys for Actos Bladder Cancer Lawsuits
DeCarli Law is representing people who have developed bladder cancer after using Actos. If you or a loved one has developed bladder cancer after using Actos, please contact the Actos lawyers at DeCarli Law for a free, no obligation consultation. DeCarli Law is among the first law firms in the nation to investigate Actos bladder cancer claims.