What is Bladder Cancer?

Bladder cancer occurs when cells in the bladder begin to grow out ​of control. ⁣The bladder is a hollow,muscular organ in the lower abdomen that stores⁢ urine.Moast‌ bladder cancers‍ begin ⁤in the cells lining the bladder (urothelial cells). There are several types of bladder cancer,⁣ the most common being urothelial carcinoma (also called transitional cell carcinoma). Less common‌ types include squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma.

According to the ​American‌ Cancer Society, an estimated 80,470 new cases of bladder cancer will be diagnosed in the United States ​in 2024.

Risk Factors: who is‌ most Susceptible?

While anyone can develop bladder cancer, certain factors increase⁢ the risk. Notably, men are significantly more susceptible to bladder cancer than ‍women, with approximately a 3:1 ratio. Here’s a breakdown of key risk factors:

• Smoking: The most⁤ meaningful risk factor, responsible for about half of all bladder cancers.
• Age: Risk ‍increases with ⁤age; most diagnoses occur after age 65.
• sex: Men are ‍more likely to develop bladder cancer.
• Race: ‌ White individuals have a ​slightly ⁣higher risk.
• Occupational Exposures: certain chemicals used in manufacturing, such as aromatic amines, can​ increase risk.
• Previous Cancer Treatment: Radiation therapy to the pelvic area and certain chemotherapy drugs can increase risk.
• Family History: Having⁣ a family history of bladder cancer can​ slightly increase‍ risk.
• Chronic Bladder Infections/Inflammation: Long-term inflammation can contribute.

Symptoms of Bladder Cancer

Early bladder cancer often doesn’t cause noticeable