Bladder cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the bladder, which is a hollow organ located in the lower abdomen that stores urine. Bladder cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, with the majority of cases occurring in older adults.
Risk Factors: Several factors may increase the risk of developing bladder cancer, including smoking tobacco (the most significant risk factor), exposure to certain chemicals and carcinogens (such as those used in the rubber, textile, and dye industries), older age, male gender (although women can also develop bladder cancer), white race, chronic bladder inflammation or infection, history of bladder cancer or other urinary tract cancers, and certain genetic conditions.
Types of Bladder Cancer: The majority of bladder cancers are urothelial carcinomas, which begin in the cells lining the bladder. Other less common types of bladder cancer include squamous cell carcinoma (which develops in the thin, flat cells of the bladder lining) and adenocarcinoma (which begins in glandular cells of the bladder).
Symptoms: Symptoms of bladder cancer may include blood in the urine (hematuria), which may be visible to the naked eye or detected microscopically, frequent urination, painful urination, urinary urgency, urinary tract infections, and pelvic pain. However, these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it’s important for individuals experiencing such symptoms to see a healthcare provider for evaluation.
Diagnosis: Bladder cancer is typically diagnosed through a combination of methods, including a medical history and physical examination, urine tests (such as urinalysis and urine cytology), imaging tests (such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI), and cystoscopy (a procedure to examine the inside of the bladder with a thin, flexible tube equipped with a camera). Biopsy (removal and examination of a sample of bladder tissue) is often performed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type and stage of the cancer.
Treatment: Treatment for bladder cancer depends on factors such as the type, stage, and grade of the cancer, as well as the individual’s overall health and preferences. Treatment options may include surgery (such as transurethral resection of bladder tumor, partial cystectomy, or radical cystectomy), intravesical therapy (delivery of anticancer drugs directly into the bladder), radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy (such as Bacillus Calmette-Guérin or immune checkpoint inhibitors), and targeted therapy. Treatment may be used alone or in combination, and it may be tailored to each person’s specific situation.
Prognosis: The prognosis for bladder cancer varies depending on factors such as the stage and grade of the cancer, the presence of specific genetic mutations or biomarkers, and how well the cancer responds to treatment. Bladder cancer diagnosed at an early stage (when it is confined to the inner layers of the bladder) generally has a better prognosis, with higher survival rates.