What is Bladder Cancer?

Bladder cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the cells of the bladder, the organ responsible for storing urine. It typically affects the lining of the bladder and can spread to other parts of the body if not treated promptly. At Urology Specialists of Georgia, we provide comprehensive care and advanced treatments to manage and treat bladder cancer effectively.

Symptoms of Bladder Cancer

• Blood in the Urine (Hematuria): The most common symptom, which may cause urine to appear pink, red, or cola-colored.
• Frequent Urination: Needing to urinate more often than usual.
• Painful Urination: Discomfort or burning sensation during urination.
• Back or Pelvic Pain: Persistent pain in the lower back or pelvic area.
• Urgent Need to Urinate: A strong and sudden urge to urinate.

Risk Factors for Bladder Cancer

• Smoking: The leading cause, as harmful chemicals in tobacco enter the bladder through urine.
• Exposure to Chemicals: Particularly in industries like dye, rubber, leather, and aluminum.
• Chronic Bladder Inflammation: Conditions like urinary infections or frequent catheter use.
• Personal or Family History: A history of bladder cancer in yourself or close family members.
• Age and Gender: More common in older adults and men.

How is Bladder Cancer Diagnosed?

• Urinalysis: Detects blood and abnormal cells in the urine.
• Cystoscopy: A thin tube with a camera is inserted into the bladder to visually inspect for tumors.
• Biopsy: Tissue samples taken during cystoscopy to confirm cancer and determine its type and grade.
• Imaging Tests: CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasounds to determine the extent of cancer and check for spread to other areas.

Treatment Options for Bladder Cancer

• Surgery:
  • Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor (TURBT): A common procedure for early-stage bladder cancer, where tumors are removed through the urethra.
  • Cystectomy: Partial or radical removal of the bladder, depending on the cancer’s spread.
  • Reconstructive Surgery: Creating a new way for urine to exit the body following a cystectomy.
• Intravesical Therapy:
  • Immunotherapy (BCG): A solution containing Bacillus Calmette-Guerin is placed directly into the bladder to stimulate the immune system to attack cancer cells.
  • Chemotherapy: Anti-cancer drugs placed directly into the bladder to target cancer cells.
• Systemic Chemotherapy: Used to treat more advanced bladder cancer that has spread beyond the bladder, involving anti-cancer drugs administered through the bloodstream.
• Radiation Therapy: High-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells, often combined with chemotherapy.
• Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy: Advanced treatments that target specific cancer cells or enhance the body’s immune response against cancer.

Why Choose Urology Specialists of Georgia for Bladder Cancer Treatment?

• Expertise: Our urologists are highly skilled in diagnosing and treating bladder cancer using the latest techniques and technologies.
• Comprehensive Care: We offer a full spectrum of care, from initial diagnosis to advanced treatments and post-operative follow-up.
• Personalized Treatment Plans: We tailor our treatment plans to meet the specific needs of each patient, ensuring the best possible outcomes.

I felt completely at ease with the staff at Urology Specialists of Georgia. Their professionalism and compassion made all the difference in my recovery.

– Mary S.

The care I received at Urology Specialists of Georgia was exceptional. The team was knowledgeable and supportive, helping me navigate my treatment options and improving my quality of life.

– John D.