This article provides an in-depth overview of bladder cancer, exploring its causes, symptoms, and diverse treatment options. It covers the different types of bladder tumors, risk factors, and how early detection can improve outcomes.
Bladder cancer arises when abnormal cells in the lining of the bladder grow uncontrollably, forming malignant growths. These tumors can spread to nearby organs such as bones, lymph nodes, liver, kidneys, and lungs, leading to serious health issues. Often classified as papillary or flat tumors, bladder cancers include subtypes like urothelial carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, small cell carcinoma, sarcoma, and adenocarcinoma. Risk factors encompass smoking, exposure to harmful chemicals, age, gender, ethnicity, and certain occupational environments. Common symptoms are blood in urine, painful urination, lower back or abdominal pain, and increased frequency of urination. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation therapy, tailored to the cancer stage and type.