Bladder Cancer

What is Bladder Cancer?

Bladder cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the lining of the bladder. It can range from superficial, non-invasive tumors to more aggressive forms that invade deeper layers of the bladder or spread to other parts of the body. Early detection is key to effective treatment.

 

Common Symptoms:

 

• Blood in the urine (hematuria), sometimes visible or microscopic

• Frequent urination or urgency

• Painful urination

• Lower back or pelvic pain in advanced cases

• Unexplained weight loss or fatigue (in later stages)

 

Causes & Risk Factors:

Bladder cancer develops when cells in the bladder lining mutate. Factors that can increase risk include:

 

• Smoking or exposure to tobacco smoke

• Exposure to certain chemicals (dyes, paints, solvents)

• Chronic bladder irritation or infections

• Family history of bladder cancer

• Age (more common in people over 55)

 

Management & Treatment:

Treatment depends on the stage and type of cancer:

 

• Surgical options: Removing tumours or part/all of the bladder

• Intravesical therapy: Medication delivered directly into the bladder to treat early-stage cancer

• Chemotherapy & radiation: Used for more advanced or invasive cancers

• Immunotherapy: Stimulates the body’s immune system to fight cancer