Choose which sections to read
- Bladder cancer develops when cells in the bladder lining grow out of control. Most tumours start in urothelial cells.
- Visible blood in the urine is the main warning sign. It may be painless, happen only once and then temporarily disappear.
- Blood in the urine does not automatically mean cancer; an infection, stone, prostate problem or another condition may also cause it. Investigation is still needed.
- A single urine test does not establish the diagnosis. Imaging, an examination inside the bladder and tissue testing are usually needed.
- Treatment and outlook depend on the type, grade and stage, particularly whether the tumour has grown into the bladder muscle and whether it has spread.
- Non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer is often removed through the urethra and sometimes treated with medicines put into the bladder. Regular examinations inside the bladder remain important because the disease may return.
- Muscle-invasive disease may require a combination of chemotherapy, surgery or radiotherapy. The treatment team discusses what is most suitable medically and personally.
- Smoking is the main avoidable risk factor. Stopping also helps after diagnosis and improves overall fitness for treatment.
Your response
Two anonymous questions
Did you find what you were looking for?
Do you now have a clearer idea of your next step?
Share article
Do you need a healthcare provider after reading?
Search by type of care, organisation, name or district.