Bladder Cancer
Bladder cancer occurs when the cells in the bladder become abnormal and grow out of control. Over time, a tumor forms. Cancer can spread to your nearby lymph nodes or organs. It can spread to your bones, lungs, or liver. Bladder cancer is rare, accounting for 5% of all new cancers in the US.
Signs and Symptoms
Some common symptoms of bladder cancer may include:
Blood in urine (often painless)
Frequent urination
Painful urination
Pelvic or back pain (in later stages)
Risk Factors
Smoking
Exposure to industrial chemicals
Older age (typically >55)
Male sex
Family or personal history of bladder cancer
Treatment Options
Surgical resection (TURBT or cystectomy)
Intravesical therapy (e.g., BCG)
Chemotherapy or immunotherapy
Radiation therapy