Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer is a disease in which malignant cells are found in the bladder.  Types of bladder cancers include:

• Transitional cell:  About 90% are transitional cell carcinomas (cancer that begins in cells that normally make up the inner lining of the bladder)
• Squamous cell:  Cancer that begins in thin, flat cells
• Adenocarcinoma: Cancer that develops in the inner lining of the bladder as a result of chronic irritation and inflammation.

Risks

Studies have found the following risk factors for bladder cancer:

• Age.  People over 40 are at a higher risk.
• Tobacco.  Smokers are two to three times more likely than nonsmokers to get bladder cancer. 
• Infections. Being infected with certain parasites (common in tropical areas) increases the risk of bladder cancer.  
• Race.  Caucasians get bladder cancer twice as often as African-Americans and Hispanics. The lowest rates are among Asians.
• Being a man. Males are two to three times more likely than females to get bladder cancer.
• Family history. People with family members who have bladder cancer are more likely to get the disease.
• Personal history of bladder cancer. People who have had bladder cancer have an increased chance of getting the disease again.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of bladder cancer include:

• Blood in the urine (making the urine slightly rusty to deep red),
• Pain during urination
• Frequent urination, or feeling the need to urinate without results.

These symptoms are not sure signs of bladder cancer. Infections, benign tumors, bladder stones or other problems also can cause these symptoms. Anyone with these symptoms should see a doctor so that the doctor can diagnose and treat any problem as early as possible.