A man from Round Rock, Texas, has become the first patient in the state to undergo a newly approved treatment for bladder cancer, a significant development in the fight against this disease. At just 39 years old, James Stewart faced a shocking diagnosis after experiencing symptoms that initially seemed benign.
Stewart, who actively participates in sports such as rollerblading and paddle boarding, had never faced serious health issues until last year. His life took a dramatic turn when he noticed blood in his urine. Despite his age, doctors initially attributed the problem to an enlarged prostate, administering medication that did not alleviate his symptoms. A subsequent CT scan revealed the troubling truth: he had bladder cancer.
Following the traditional route, Stewart underwent surgery to remove tumors from his bladder, one of which was notably large, measuring the size of an egg. He then received standard immunotherapy treatment known as Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG). This treatment involves the administration of a medication through a catheter, which patients must hold in their bladders for two hours. Unfortunately, the treatment proved to be extremely painful for Stewart, and after enduring significant discomfort, his condition did not improve.
Dr. Carl Bischoff from Urology Austin noted the limitations of BCG, which has been the primary treatment for bladder cancer for over 50 years. “We haven’t had anything else,” he remarked, highlighting the need for effective alternatives. With Stewart’s bladder still filled with tumors and facing the prospect of bladder removal and a urostomy bag, he opted for a pioneering treatment—becoming the first in Texas to try Inlexzo.
Inlexzo, a novel chemotherapy treatment, is delivered through a tube resembling a pretzel. Once inserted via catheter into the bladder, the tube remains for three weeks, slowly releasing medication. After the initial period, the tube is replaced. The treatment has shown promise, reporting an 82% complete response rate during treatment, meaning no cancer is evident, and a 51% complete response rate after more than a year. In contrast, BCG has a 40% recurrence rate.
Stewart’s first three months of treatment have yielded positive results, with no evidence of cancer detected. He is set to continue this innovative therapy for a total of two years. The cost of Inlexzo is approximately $900,000, which posed a significant challenge for insurance approval. Fortunately, Urology Austin was able to secure coverage for Stewart, emphasizing the necessity of such treatments for patients whose cancer has not responded to earlier therapies.
Bladder cancer predominantly affects men over the age of 65, with only about 25% of cases occurring in women, typically those who have gone through menopause. Smoking remains the most significant risk factor, alongside exposure to certain chemicals and frequent catheter use. It ranks as the 10th most common cancer in the United States.
Recognizing the signs of bladder cancer is crucial. Symptoms may include blood in the urine, frequent urination, pain during urination, and a sense of urgency shortly after emptying the bladder. In advanced cases, symptoms can escalate to lower back pain, swelling in the feet, fatigue, and weight loss.
Stewart remains optimistic as he continues his treatment, balancing his health challenges with an active lifestyle. “I try to stay positive as best I can,” he stated, attributing his resilience to the support from friends and family. Through his journey, he hopes to pave the way for others facing similar battles, showcasing the potential of innovative treatments in the fight against cancer.
