Bladder cancer is the fourth most common cancer in men and the tenth most common cancer in women in the United States. Early signs of bladder cancer may include blood in the urine, pain or burning during urination, and frequent urination.
What Are the Signs of Bladder Cancer?
Bladder cancer is a disease in which malignant cells form in the tissues of the bladder. It is the sixth most common cancer in the United States, with over 80,000 new cases and close to 17,000 deaths in 2023. 1 The most common sign of bladder cancer is hematuria, or blood in the urine. Other signs and symptoms may include:
- Frequent urination
- Painful urination
- Difficulty urinating
- Weak or interrupted urine stream
- Pelvic pain
- Back pain
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
It is important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, such as urinary tract infections or kidney stones. However, it is important to see a doctor if you experience any of these symptoms, as they could be a sign of bladder cancer.
Bladder Cancer: Early Detection Saves Lives
Bladder cancer is often curable if it is found and treated early. 2 The five-year survival rate for bladder cancer that is found and treated while it is still confined to the bladder is quite high. However, the five-year survival rate for bladder cancer that has spread to other parts of the body is very low. This is why it is so important to see a doctor if you experience any of the symptoms of bladder cancer.
There are a number of tests that can be used to diagnose bladder cancer, including:
- Urinalysis
- Cystoscopy
- Biopsy
These tests can help to determine if you have bladder cancer and, if so, what stage it is in. The stage of bladder cancer is determined by the size and location of the tumor, as well as whether it has spread to other parts of the body.
Spot Bladder Cancer Early: Know the Signs
The best way to prevent bladder cancer is to avoid the risk factors for the disease. These risk factors include:
- Smoking
- Exposure to certain chemicals, such as arsenic, benzene, and formaldehyde
- A family history of bladder cancer
- Being over the age of 55
If you are at risk for bladder cancer, it is important to see your doctor regularly for screenings. These screenings can help to detect bladder cancer early, when it is most curable.
Learn More About Bladder Cancer
If you would like to learn more about bladder cancer, there are a number of resources available. Some of these resources include:
- The American Cancer Society
- The National Cancer Institute
- The Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network
These resources can provide you with information about the signs and symptoms of bladder cancer, the risk factors for the disease, and the available treatment options.