Overview
The bladder is a hollow sac that sits behind the pelvis. It stores urine (wee).
Bladder cancer begins when abnormal cells grow in the inner lining of the bladder (superficial bladder cancer). If the cancer continues to grow, it may spread to deeper layers of muscle in the bladder (muscle-invasive bladder cancer). Sometimes bladder cancer grows outside the bladder and affects other parts of the body.
A bladder cancer diagnosis can be a shock. Find helpful information in Just diagnosed, or call Cancer Connect on 13 11 20 to talk it through with our qualified professionals.
What's in this booklet
About bladder cancer
Read about the types of bladder cancer, how the bladder works, who gets bladder cancer, and which health professionals will look after your care.
Diagnosis
The main test to look for bladder cancer is called a cystoscopy. You may have blood and urine tests first, and you may also have scans such as an ultrasound, CT or MRI.
Symptoms and risk factors
Smoking and older age increase the risk of getting bladder cancer. Symptoms of bladder cancer may include blood in the urine (wee) and pain while weeing.
Treatment
Learn about the treatment options for superficial and muscle-invasive bladder cancers. These include different types of surgery, chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
Managing side effects
Bladder cancer treatment can have side effects. Find out about possible side effects, as well as how to manage weeing after surgery.
Advanced treatment
If bladder cancer has spread to other parts of the body (advanced bladder cancer), treatments will aim to control its growth and manage symptoms.
Life after treatment
Find out about follow-up care, how to look after your physical and mental health, and what happens if bladder cancer returns.
Questions to ask your doctor
It can be a good idea to prepare a list of questions before your appointments. See our list of questions about bladder cancer treatment and care.
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