Bladder Cancer
November 25, 2024
This page was reviewed under our medical and editorial policy by Kevin G. Chan, M.D., clinical professor, division of urology and urologic oncology, Department of Surgery, City of Hope® Cancer Center Duarte
Bladder cancer results from the unchecked growth of cancerous cells in the urinary bladder. More than 84,000 new bladder cancer cases are diagnosed in the United States every year, with men accounting for nearly 75% of them. There are several types of bladder cancer whose symptoms and treatments may vary.
Bladder cancer is a disease in which cells in the urinary bladder start growing abnormally and uncontrollably. This disease is four times more common among men than women, and twice as common in white men than in men who are Hispanic, Black or Asian/Pacific Islander.
Urinary changes, such as blood in the patient’s urine, are often the first symptoms of bladder cancer. Patients may also experience general symptoms such as fatigue, weakness and back pain.
About 90% of bladder cancers are transitional cell carcinomas (also known as urothelial carcinomas), which begin in the cells lining the bladder's inside. Other types include adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and more.
If bladder cancer is suspected, the care team may use a variety of tests to look for the disease, including a physical exam, an internal exam, a urine lab test, a biopsy, a cystoscopy or fluorescence cystoscopy.
Surgery is the most common bladder cancer treatment, although other therapies, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy, may also be used. The specific treatment plan that the care team recommends will be based on the patient’s type and stage of cancer, as well as other factors.
At City of Hope, bladder cancer clinicians and researchers collaborate extensively to develop and evaluate new therapies for better survival and quality-of-life outcomes.
When you come to City of Hope, you automatically gain access to an unparalleled array of support services to help you and your loved ones take each step during and after your bladder cancer treatment.
Our Bladder Cancer Expertise
City of Hope is a nationally recognized leader in researching and treating urologic cancers. As a founding member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, our doctors also develop evidence-based bladder cancer treatment guidelines for patients throughout the country.
Bladder Cancer Program Highlights:
- One of the largest centers offering robotic cystectomies with novel urinary diversion options, such as Indiana pouches and neobladders.
- Surgical expertise in minimally invasive procedures
- Specialization in urinary tract reconstruction and treatment of erectile dysfunction, urinary incontinence and urologic retroperitoneal disease
- A “coordinated care pathway” integrating experts from multiple specialties to focus on cases through the entire continuum of care and rehabilitation — expediting recovery, improving outcomes and enhancing patient experience
- A comprehensive portfolio of better cancer-fighting drugs with fewer side effects
- Ongoing research on bladder cancer and clinical trials for promising new therapies, including immunity-based and stem cell therapies
- Long-term survivorship and follow-up program focused on minimizing recurrence risk and improving quality of life
Comprehensive supportive care programs are available to you and your family through every step of your bladder cancer journey.
Our developments in the areas of breakthrough cancer drugs, urinary diversion options and urology treatment are recognized internationally.
Our leadership in research and innovation continually enhances our ability to provide novel and differentiated approaches to cancer care.
