Bladder Cancer
A disease of our urinary tract, bladder cancer is highly treatable when caught early but often reoccurs after initial treatment.
The bladder, which stores our urine, consists of many layers; as the cancer grows, it penetrates more layers and becomes more difficult treat. Four types of tumors can cause bladder cancer, with the most common called transitional cell carcinoma.
Although the cause of bladder cancer is unknown, you may be at higher risk if you have chronic bladder infections, a diet high in nitrates and fatty foods, prior radiation or chemotherapy treatments and exposure to chemicals found in dyes. A personal and family history of bladder also puts you at higher risk.
See your doctor as soon as possible if you notice blood in your urine, a condition called hematuria. Frequent or painful urination, and abdominal or back pain may also be signs of bladder cancer.
Recently Answered
- Q How many people suffer from bladder cancer?
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Over half a million people in the United States suffer from bladder cancer each year. This can include those who are newly diagnosed as well as those currently being treated. New cases of bladder cancer in the United States in 2009 reached nearly 71,000... Full Answer
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- Q What causes bladder cancer?
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We do not yet know exactly what causes bladder cancer, but we do know that certain risk factors are linked to the disease. Having a risk factor, or even several, does not mean that you will get the disease. The following risk factors have been linked to... Full Answer
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- Q What are the symptoms of bladder cancer?
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For most people, the first symptom of bladder cancer is hematuria, blood in the urine. Hematuria is either gross (visible) or microscopic: •Gross/Visible means it can be seen with the naked eye•Microscopic means blood is only visible when a... Full Answer
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- Q What is bladder cancer?
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Bladder cancer is the uncontrolled growth of cells, usually originating in the bladder lining. The bladder is an organ located in the pelvic cavity that stores and discharges urine. Urine is produced by the kidneys, carried to the bladder by hollow... Full Answer
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- Q How is bladder cancer diagnosed?
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There are several tests that can be done to diagnose bladder cancer. If you have symptoms, including pain when urinating or blood in your urine, then your doctor will want to run some tests. When it is found early, bladder cancer is treatable. Your... Full Answer
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- Q Can bladder cancer be prevented?
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An absolute method to prevent bladder cancer doesn't exist. Taking steps to limit your possible risks may help to some degree. Eat a healthy diet including lots of fruits and vegetables. Get plenty of water to drink every day to keep any toxins moving... Full Answer
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- Q If I've been diagnosed with bladder cancer, what should I ask my physician?
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Bladder cancer patients need to ask their doctor important questions, such as, "What kind of cancer is it?" In this video, Simon Hall, MD, director of the Deane Prostate Health and Research Center, suggests other questions you should ask. Full Answer
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- Q Are there environmental factors that cause bladder cancer?
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In about 1/3 cases of bladder cancer, there is no known cause. In this video, Simon Hall, MD, director of the Deane Prostate Health and Research Center, says the rest may be related to smoking and other environmental exposures. Full Answer
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- Q What are the survival rates of bladder cancer?
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Survival rates for bladder cancer vary. In less invasive cases, survivability is high. In this video, Simon Hall, MD, director of the Deane Prostate Health and Research Center, explains why survivability rates are lower for invasive cancer. Full Answer
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- Q What is recurrent bladder cancer?
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Dr. Arthur Crowley, UrologyRecurrent (urinary) bladder cancer refers to cancer that has returned or recurred after successful treatment. Treatment is generally aimed at destroying all cancer cells. However, few cancer cells may survive and continue to multiply. The recurrence can... Full Answer
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