The number of people who have cancer is increasing on a large scale. From all the types of cancer that are detected amongst people in the United States, bladder cancer is fourth on the list. While comparing the ratio between men and women, men are more likely to be diagnosed with bladder cancer than women.
Bladder cancer starts with an excessive growth of urothelial cells, which are found in the bladder lining. They start forming into a mass, which is known as a tumor. A tumor can be classified into two types – malignant and benign. A malignant cancer tumor is known to grow and spread in the body, whereas a benign tumor is limited to growth only.
Types of bladder cancer
There are four main types of bladder cancer. They are as follows:
- Urothelial carcinoma or transitional cell carcinoma: Urothelial carcinoma is the most common type of cancer detected amongst bladder cancer patients. Almost 90% people with bladder cancer have urothelial carcinoma.
- Squamous cell carcinoma: These cells grow when there is an irritation in the bladder and inflammation of the bladder. These cells tend to become cancerous eventually. This type occurs in about 4% people who have bladder cancer.
- Adenocarcinoma: Adenocarcinoma grows from glandular cells. This type of cancer affects about 2% people with bladder cancer.
- Sarcoma and small cell anaplastic cancer: These are rare types of cancers. Small cell anaplastic cancer is known for spreading in other parts of the body. Sarcoma cancer originates in the muscle layers of the bladder or fat.
Symptoms and signs of bladder cancer
People who have bladder cancer will show the following signs or symptoms:
- Blood discharge in the urine.
- Irritation, pain, and a burning sensation while urinating.
- A change in the color of urine. The color of the urine may appear to be dark red.
- Unable to urinate despite having a full bladder.
- A constant urge to urinate frequently.
- Severe pain in lower back.
A person suffering or experiencing the above symptoms should immediately seek help from a qualified doctor.