A simple and clear explanation for 10-year-olds about what BCG treatment for bladder cancer involves.
BCG stands for Bacillus Calmette-Guérin. It's a special treatment used to help people with bladder cancer, which is when unhealthy cells grow in the bladder, the part of the body that holds pee.
BCG is actually a type of bacteria used in a vaccine to help boost the body's immune system. Your immune system is like the body's army, fighting off sickness and disease. When someone has bladder cancer, doctors want to help the immune system recognize and fight those unhealthy cells.
The treatment is given in a way that's a little different from taking a pill. A doctor puts a liquid that contains BCG directly into the bladder through a thin tube called a catheter. This usually happens in a hospital or clinic where you can lie down comfortably.
After the treatment, your body will start to respond. This means the immune system gets a great workout to find and attack the unhealthy cells in the bladder. Sometimes, people might feel some burning when they pee or have to go to the bathroom more often, but these are normal reactions.
Typically, BCG treatment is done multiple times over several weeks or months. Your doctor will tell you how many treatments you need to have to help fight the cancer.
BCG treatment is important because it can help stop bladder cancer from coming back after it has been treated. It helps the body's natural defenses fight the bad cells!
If you or someone you know is learning about BCG treatment, remember that it's a special way to help the body fight bladder cancer using a tiny amount of bacteria. It's super important that kids and their families understand what the treatment involves!