Bladder Cancer

What is Bladder Cancer?

Bladder cancer is one of the common malignant tumors of the urinary system, associated with smoking, exposure to chemicals, chronic irritation, and inflammation.According to the Hong Kong Cancer Registry¹, there were 463 new cases of bladder cancer in 2021, primarily affecting individuals over 65.
 

Bladder cancer has various causes, primarily including the following factors:

• Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for bladder cancer, as the chemicals in tobacco are excreted in urine and can irritate the bladder.
• Chemical Exposure: Long-term exposure to certain chemicals (such as petroleum products, dyes, and some medications) can increase the risk of developing bladder cancer.
• Chronic Irritation: Continuous irritation of the bladder (such as from chronic urinary infections or bladder stones) may promote tumor development.
• Inflammation: Chronic inflammatory conditions (like cystitis) may be associated with the occurrence of bladder cancer.
• Age and Gender: Bladder cancer typically occurs in older adults, with a higher incidence in men compared to women.
• Family History: Individuals with a family history of bladder cancer have an increased risk of developing the disease.
• Dietary Factors: Certain dietary habits (such as high-fat intake and low consumption of fruits and vegetables) may be linked to an increased risk of bladder cancer.
   

Symptoms:

• Painless hematuria
• Frequent urination and urgency
• Discomfort in the lower abdomen
• Difficulty urinating
• Weight loss (in advanced stages)
   

Treatment Options:

• Transurethral bladder tumor resection
• Minimally invasive laparoscopic cystectomy
• Urethral reconstruction

Reference：

1. Hong Kong Cancer Registry