BLADDER CANCER

What is Bladder Cancer?

Bladder cancer is any of several types of malignant growths in the urinary bladder. It is two and a half times more common in males than in females. The incidence increases with age and peaks in the sixth and seventh decades of life. The most common type of bladder cancer begins in cells lining the inside of the bladder and is called transitional cell carcinoma (TCC).

Risk Factors of Bladder Cancer

Tobacco smoking is the main known contributor to urinary bladder cancer; there is a linear relationship between smoking and risk, and quitting smoking reduces the risk. Occupations at risk are bus drivers, rubber workers, motor mechanics, leather (including shoe) workers, blacksmiths, machine setters and mechanics. Hairdressers are thought to be at risk as well because of their frequent exposure to permanent hair dyes.

Symptoms of Bladder Cancer

The most common symptom is gross painless hematuria (blood in urine). Unexplained frequency and irritative voiding symptoms should alert one to the possibility of cancer.

Diagnosis of Bladder Cancer

The workup of suspected bladder cancer should include a urine cytology test, a cystoscopy test and computed tomography (CT).

Treatment Options for Bladder Cancer at FROS Radiation Oncology Cyberknife Center: