Bladder Cancer: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Bladder cancer is one of the most common types of cancer affecting the urinary system. It starts in the cells lining the bladder and can grow into deeper layers if left untreated. While it primarily affects older adults, urinary bladder cancer can occur at any age. Early detection plays a crucial role in effective treatment, making it essential to recognise bladder cancer symptoms and understand its causes.

This guide covers everything you need to know about bladder cancer, including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, bladder cancer treatment, and when to seek medical help.

What is Bladder Cancer?

Bladder cancer develops when abnormal cells in the bladder multiply uncontrollably, forming tumours. It can be categorised based on how deeply it spreads into the bladder wall:

The two primary types are:

1. Non-Invasive Bladder Cancer

This type of bladder cancer remains confined to the inner lining of the bladder (also called the urothelium) and has not spread into the deeper muscle layers. It is also referred to as superficial bladder cancer or non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC).

Characteristics:

• Typically detected at an early stage.
• Tumours are smaller and easier to remove.
• Has a high chance of recurrence but is less likely to spread to other parts of the body.

2. Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer (MIBC)

In this more aggressive form of urinary bladder cancer, the tumour has grown into the muscle layer of the bladder wall. If left untreated, it can spread to nearby organs, lymph nodes, or even distant parts of the body (metastasis).

Characteristics:

• More serious and requires intensive treatment.
• Higher risk of spreading beyond the bladder.
• May cause more severe bladder cancer symptoms, including blood in urine, pelvic pain, and difficulty urinating.

Bladder Cancer Symptoms

Bladder cancer often presents with early warning signs. Common bladder cancer symptoms include:

• Blood in urine (haematuria) – The most common symptom, which may appear pink, red, or brown.
• Frequent urination – An increased urge to urinate, even if the bladder is not full.
• Pain or burning sensation while urinating – A discomfort that is often mistaken for a urinary tract infection.
• Lower back or pelvic pain – In advanced cases, pain may develop in the lower abdomen or back.
• Difficulty urinating – Weak urine flow or inability to urinate despite feeling the urge.

If you notice any of these symptoms, especially blood in the urine, consult a doctor immediately.

Bladder Cancer Causes

The exact bladder cancer causes are not always clear, but certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing the disease:

• Smoking – The biggest risk factor, as tobacco contains harmful chemicals that enter the bladder through urine.
• Exposure to chemicals – Long-term exposure to industrial chemicals (such as those in dyes, rubber, and leather industries) can increase risk.
• Chronic bladder irritation – Frequent urinary infections, long-term catheter use, or bladder stones may contribute to cancer development.
• Family history – A history of urinary bladder cancer in close relatives may indicate a genetic predisposition.
• Radiation therapy – Prior radiation treatments to the pelvic area can increase bladder cancer risk.

Bladder Cancer Staging

Doctors use bladder cancer staging to determine how far the cancer has spread. The stages are classified as:

• Stage 0 – Cancer is limited to the bladder lining.
• Stage I – Cancer has spread to the connective tissue layer.
• Stage II – Tumour has invaded the bladder muscle.
• Stage III – Cancer has spread beyond the bladder to nearby tissues.
• Stage IV – Advanced cancer that has spread to distant organs like the liver, lungs, or bones.

Understanding bladder cancer staging helps determine the severity of the disease and the appropriate treatment plan.

Bladder Cancer Treatment

The choice of bladder cancer treatment depends on the cancer stage and overall health of the patient. Common treatments include:

1. Surgery

• Transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT) – A minimally invasive procedure used to remove small, early-stage tumours.
• Radical cystectomy – In cases of muscle-invasive cancer, the entire bladder may need to be removed, often with nearby lymph nodes.

2. Chemotherapy

• Used before or after surgery to kill cancer cells.
• May be given directly into the bladder (intravesical chemotherapy) or through the bloodstream (systemic chemotherapy).

3. Immunotherapy

• Helps the body’s immune system fight cancer cells.
• Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) therapy is a common immunotherapy for early-stage urinary bladder cancer.

4. Radiation Therapy

• Used when surgery is not an option or to kill remaining cancer cells after surgery.

The best bladder cancer treatment depends on factors such as the stage of cancer, the patient’s age, and overall health.

Cancer Prevention: Can Bladder Cancer Be Prevented?

While cancer prevention is not always possible, certain lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of bladder cancer:

• Quit smoking – Smoking is the leading preventable cause of bladder cancer.
• Stay hydrated – Drinking plenty of fluids helps flush toxins from the bladder.
• Eat a healthy diet – A diet rich in fruits and vegetables supports overall health.
• Limit exposure to harmful chemicals – Take protective measures if working with industrial chemicals.

Regular health check-ups can also help in the early detection of bladder cancer.

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience persistent bladder cancer symptoms such as blood in the urine, pain while urinating, or frequent urinary issues, seek medical attention immediately.

If you are looking for a Urology Hospital in Bangalore, SPARSH Hospital offers proper diagnosis and treatment. You can consult some of the best urologists in Bangalore for specialised and personalised care.

Final Thoughts

Bladder cancer can be a serious condition, but early detection and timely treatment significantly improve the chances of a positive outcome. Recognising bladder cancer symptoms, understanding bladder cancer causes, and seeking medical help when necessary are essential steps in managing the disease.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main cause of bladder cancer?

The most common cause is smoking, as tobacco chemicals are processed through the kidneys and stored in the bladder, damaging its lining over time. Exposure to industrial chemicals and chronic bladder infections are also significant risk factors.

What is the best treatment for bladder cancer?

The best bladder cancer treatment depends on the stage of cancer. Early-stage cancers are often treated with TURBT and immunotherapy, while advanced cases may require surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.

How is bladder cancer first detected?

Bladder cancer is usually detected through:

• Urinalysis – To check for blood or abnormal cells in the urine.
• Cystoscopy – A procedure where a thin tube with a camera is inserted into the bladder to examine its lining.
• Biopsy – A sample of bladder tissue is taken for further analysis.
• Imaging tests – CT scans or MRIs can help determine if the cancer has spread.

Is bladder cancer very curable?

Bladder cancer is highly treatable if detected early. Non-invasive bladder cancer has a high survival rate, while advanced-stage cancer requires aggressive treatment. Regular follow-ups are crucial to monitor for recurrence.