LONG-TERM TOXICITY AND TREATMENT-RELATED OUTCOMES FOLLOWING RADICAL RADIOTHERAPY FOR URINARY BLADDER CARCINOMA

Abstract

Radical radiotherapy is a key bladder-preserving treatment modality for urinary bladder carcinoma; however, it is frequently associated with significant long-term toxicity that may compromise urinary, gastrointestinal, and sexual function. This study aimed to evaluate long-term toxicity profiles and treatment-related outcomes following radical radiotherapy in patients with urinary bladder carcinoma. A quantitative, descriptive-correlational research design was employed, involving patients treated at tertiary care oncology centers. Data were collected through structured clinical record review and follow-up assessments, and analyzed using SPSS version 26. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and logistic regression, were performed to identify predictors of late toxicity. The findings indicated that urinary toxicity was the most prevalent long-term complication (81.3%), followed by gastrointestinal toxicity (70%) and sexual dysfunction (56.3%). Higher radiation dose (>70 Gy), concurrent chemoradiotherapy, advanced tumor stage, and presence of comorbidities were significantly associated with severe late toxicity (p < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis identified radiation dose as the strongest predictor of severe toxicity. Despite these adverse effects, radical radiotherapy demonstrated acceptable disease control, supporting its continued role as a bladder-preserving strategy in selected patients. The study concludes that while radical radiotherapy is effective for urinary bladder carcinoma, it is associated with substantial long-term toxicity. Careful patient selection, dose optimization, and structured long-term follow-up are essential to improve survivorship outcomes and quality of life.