The bladder is a hollow organ that stores urine. It is located inside the lower abdomen, is about the size of a grapefruit and is distensible (elastic) which allows its muscular wall to get larger and smaller. Bladder cancer is a disease in which cancer cells form in the tissues of the bladder. Bladder cancer typically affects older adults, though it can occur at any age.
Treatment options depend on the stage of bladder cancer (Stage 0 to Stage 4). There are four standard treatment options for bladder cancer:
- Surgery
- Radiation
- Chemotherapy
- Biological therapy (immunotherapy)
It is important to discuss all treatments and surgical options with your doctor before deciding which is best for your individual situation.
To learn more about bladder cancer, please visit the Urology Care Foundation website.