What is Urinary Bladder Cancer?
Urinary bladder cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells lining the bladder—the hollow organ in the lower abdomen that stores urine. Most bladder cancers are diagnosed at an early stage, when they are highly treatable.
What Causes Urinary Bladder Cancer?
Bladder cancer occurs when bladder cells start growing uncontrollably. Several risk factors can contribute to this abnormal growth, including:
- Smoking – The biggest risk factor due to harmful chemicals in tobacco
- Exposure to industrial chemicals – Especially in dye, rubber, and leather industries
- Chronic bladder infections or irritation
- Family history or inherited genetic mutations
- Age and gender – More common in older adults and in men
- Previous cancer treatments – Such as chemotherapy or radiation to the pelvis
What Are the Symptoms?
Early signs and symptoms of bladder cancer may include:
- Blood in the urine (hematuria) – often painless and visible or microscopic
- Frequent urination
- Pain or burning sensation during urination
- Urgency to urinate, even when the bladder is not full
- Pelvic pain or lower back pain (in more advanced cases)
How is Urinary Bladder Cancer Diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves several tests to confirm the presence and stage of cancer:
- Urine tests – To check for cancer cells or signs of infection
- Cystoscopy – A thin tube with a camera is used to view the inside of the bladder
- Biopsy – Tissue samples may be taken during cystoscopy for analysis
- Imaging tests – CT scans, MRIs, or ultrasounds to detect tumors and check for spread
- Urine cytology – To examine cells shed in the urine
How is Urinary Bladder Cancer Treated?
Treatment depends on the cancer type, stage, and overall health of the patient:
- Surgery – To remove tumors (transurethral resection or partial/total cystectomy)
- Intravesical therapy – Medicine delivered directly into the bladder (e.g., BCG therapy)
- Chemotherapy – Used before or after surgery, or when cancer has spread
- Radiation therapy – Often combined with chemotherapy for certain cases
- Immunotherapy – To help the immune system attack cancer cells
- Targeted therapy – In advanced or metastatic bladder cancer
Can Urinary Bladder Cancer Cause Complications?
Yes, potential complications include:
- Recurrence of cancer
- Spread to nearby organs or lymph nodes
- Urinary incontinence or bladder dysfunction
- Side effects from treatment (e.g., fatigue, infection, scarring)
When Should You See a Doctor?
See a doctor promptly if you notice:
- Blood in your urine (even once)
- Changes in urination patterns or pain while urinating
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
- Unexplained fatigue or weight loss