Bladder Cancer

Overview

Bladder cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting the urinary system. It typically begins in the urothelial cells lining the inside of the bladder—a hollow organ in the lower abdomen that stores urine. Early detection significantly improves outcomes, making awareness and screening critical.

Prevalence & Risk

• Incidence: Bladder cancer is the 6th most common cancer in the United States.

• Gender: Men are four times more likely to develop bladder cancer than women.

• Age: Most cases occur in individuals over the age of 55, with the average age at diagnosis around 73.

• Within the United States, there are approximately 82,000 new cases of bladder cancer diagnosed yearly.
  
  

Risk Factors

• Smoking: The leading cause, accounting for more than 50% of cases.

• Chemical Exposure: Long-term exposure to industrial chemicals (e.g., in dye, rubber, or leather industries).

• Chronic Bladder Irritation: Infections, stones, and long-term catheter use may increase risk.

• Family History: Genetics may play a role in a small percentage of cases.

• Radiation & Chemotherapy: Past pelvic radiation or use of certain drugs like cyclophosphamide.
  
  

Common Symptoms

• Blood in the urine (hematuria) – often painless and intermittent.

• Frequent urination or urgency.

• Pain or burning sensation during urination.

• Pelvic or lower back pain (in more advanced cases).

Note: These symptoms can also be caused by benign conditions like infections or stones. Evaluation by a urologist is essential.

Diagnosis

• Cystoscopy: Direct visualization of the bladder using a thin camera.

• Imaging: CT urogram or ultrasound for detailed internal views.

• Biopsy: Tissue sample collection during cystoscopy to confirm diagnosis.
  
  

Treatment Options

Treatment is personalized based on the type, stage, and grade of the tumor:

• Non-Muscle-Invasive (NMIBC):

  • Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor (TURBT)

  • Intravesical therapy (e.g., BCG, Mitomycin C, Gemcitabine/Docetaxel, Adstiladrin, Anktiva, etc)
    
    

• Muscle-Invasive (MIBC):

  • Radical cystectomy (bladder removal) with or without systemic chemotherapy

  • Bladder-sparing trimodal therapy: Maximal TURBT, Chemotherapy, Radiation
    
    

• Advanced/Metastatic:

  • Immunotherapy (e.g., immune checkpoint inhibitors)

  • Targeted therapies
    
    

Follow-Up & Recurrence

Bladder cancer has a high recurrence rate, especially in non-invasive forms. Regular follow-up with cystoscopies and urine tests is crucial to monitor for recurrence or progression.

When to See a Urologist

If you experience blood in urine, persistent urinary discomfort, or unexplained changes in bladder habits, consult a urologist promptly. Early diagnosis leads to better outcomes and more treatment options.

Expert Urologic Care for Bladder Cancer

Our team specializes in comprehensive bladder cancer care, offering cutting-edge diagnostics, individualized treatment plans, and ongoing support. If you or a loved one has concerns about bladder health, we're here to help.