Overview
Bladder cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the bladder start to grow uncontrollably. Most bladder cancers are transitional cell carcinomas, which start in the cells that line the inside of the bladder. It is the sixth most common cancer in men and less common in women. Early detection significantly improves prognosis.
Symptoms
The most common symptom is blood in the urine (hematuria), which may cause urine to appear red, pink, or cola-colored. Other symptoms include frequent urination, painful urination, and lower back pain. In advanced stages, there may be pelvic or flank pain and weight loss.
Causes
The most significant risk factor is smoking. Exposure to industrial chemicals used in the dye, rubber, leather, and paint industries is another risk factor. Other factors include age (older), chronic bladder infections, and a family history of bladder cancer.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the stage and grade of the cancer. Options include surgery (e.g., transurethral resection, cystectomy), chemotherapy (intravesical or systemic), radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. Treatment may involve a combination of these approaches.
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if you notice any blood in your urine or experience pain during urination. While these symptoms can be caused by other conditions, they should be evaluated to rule out cancer.