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Bladder cancer Matepukupuku tōngāmimi
Bladder cancer happens when the cells lining the bladder become abnormal and grow into a tumour. The cancer can be in the lining of the bladder or in the deeper layers of the bladder such as the muscle wall.
Causes of bladder cancer
The cause of bladder cancer is not known, but there is a higher risk of getting it if you:
- are male
- smoke
- are aged over 55
- have long lasting urinary tract infections
- have been exposed to certain chemicals
- have a family history of bladder cancer.
Symptoms of bladder cancer
The most common symptom is blood in your wee (urine). This is also called haematuria.
Less common symptoms include:
- needing to wee more often or urgently
- having a burning sensation when you wee
- lower stomach or back pain.
Some people do not have any symptoms.
Diagnosing bladder cancer
Your healthcare provider will ask you about your symptoms and medical history. They may carry out a physical examination.
They may arrange tests including:
- a urine test
- blood test
- a CT scan or an ultrasound.
They may also refer you to a specialist (urologist) for further testing.
You may need a procedure known as a cystoscopy, when a thin flexible tube with a camera is passed into your bladder. It allows the person doing the procedure to see inside and take a sample if needed.
Treating bladder cancer
Your treatment will depend on several factors including the type of cancer. It may include:
- surgery
- immunotherapy
- chemotherapy
- radiotherapy.
Self care when you have cancer
It is important to take care of yourself when you have cancer. Try to:
- eat as well as you can
- get regular physical activity
- get plenty of sleep
- talk to the people who care about you
- accept or ask for help when you need it.
Preventing bladder cancer
You can reduce your risk of getting bladder cancer by not smoking. You should also follow safety instructions around chemicals.
Cancer support
Once someone has been diagnosed with cancer, we know there are some difficult days ahead. No matter where you are on the cancer pathway, there is always someone to connect with for support.
There are local services available to help make things easier for you and your whānau.
Support we offer — Cancer Societyexternal link
Look good feel betterexternal link
There are a number of benefits of belonging to a support group.