BEAT Bladder Cancer Australia
Services offered
Cancer information
Emotional support
Talking with others who have had cancer
Overview
The bladder is a hollow sac that sits in the pelvis. It store urine.
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.
Key questions
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.
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.
Key steps
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.
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.
Treatment
Learn about treatment options for superficial and muscle-invasive bladder cancers, as well as advanced bladder cancer. These include different types of surgery, chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
Urinary diversion
Surgery to remove the bladder will also create a new way for your body to store urine. Find out about types of urinary diversion and how to manage the change.
Relevant support
Bladder Cancer Australia Charity Foundation
Services offered
Cancer information
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Need to talk to someone?
We're available 9am - 5pm, Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays)
