Clinical trials play an important role in improving cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment. For some patients, taking part may offer access to new therapies that are not yet widely available. Your care team can help determine whether a clinical trial may be an option and explain what participation involves.
What is Bladder Cancer?
ladder cancer develops when cells in the bladder—the organ in your lower abdomen that stores urine—begin to grow and divide abnormally. These changes can form tumors and affect bladder function, often causing early warning signs such as blood in the urine.
Whether you have concerns or a new diagnosis, LifeBridge Health’s cancer specialists provide clear guidance, personalized treatment options and supportive follow-up care.
Bladder Cancer Symptoms
Bladder cancer often causes changes in urination, though symptoms can vary from person to person. You may experience:
- Blood in the urine
- Needing to urinate more often than usual
- Pain or burning during urination
- Trouble starting or fully emptying the bladder
- A strong urge to urinate even after going
- Lower back or pelvic discomfort
How Bladder Cancer is Diagnosed
There are no routine screenings for bladder cancer, but when changes in urination raise concern, your provider can use several tests to confirm a diagnosis and understand how advanced the cancer may be.
Urine Tests
Urine tests look for blood, abnormal cells or signs of infection that may explain symptoms.
Cystoscopy
A thin, lighted tube is used to examine the inside of the bladder. This is usually an outpatient procedure.
Biopsy
During a cystoscopy, a small tissue sample may be taken for evaluation under a microscope. This will confirm the diagnosis.
Imaging Tests
CT scans, MRIs or ultrasounds create detailed images of the bladder and nearby organs to help identify any abnormalities.
Bladder Cancer Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the type and stage of bladder cancer and your overall health. At LifeBridge Health, specialists from a range of disciplines work together to recommend care that fits your needs.
Surgery
Surgery may be used to remove tumors from the bladder lining or, in more advanced cases, remove part or all of the bladder. Your surgeon will explain which approach makes sense for you and what recovery may involve.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells. It may be used when surgery isn’t an option.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses medication to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. It may be given before surgery to shrink tumors, after surgery to reduce the risk of the cancer returning or as a primary treatment.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy uses medication to help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy focuses on specific parts of cancer cells that help them grow. This approach helps limit damage to healthy tissue.
Clinical Trials
Supportive Services
When you receive cancer care at LifeBridge Health, you have access to supportive services like counseling, integrative therapies and support groups. These resources are designed to help patients care for their physical and emotional well‑being throughout treatment and beyond.