Bladder cancer is an abnormal growth of the cells typically lining the wall of the bladder. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 80,000 new cases of bladder cancer are projected to be diagnosed in the United States this year. Men are about three times more likely to be diagnosed than women, and it is the fourth most common cancer in men.

When patients have bladder cancer, they may experience changes in their urine or urination habits. The most common symptom of bladder cancer is blood in the urine. Other symptoms that may arise, but are less common, include painful or frequent urination, or the sensation of urgency to urinate.

People who smoke are at higher risk of developing bladder cancer. Age is another factor, as people diagnosed with bladder cancer are more commonly in their 60s to 70s. Less common risk factors include those who are dealing with conditions that may cause chronic inflammation, such as long-term catheter use. And although rare, environmental exposures, such as consistently working with aniline-based dyes could increase a person’s risk of developing bladder cancer.

Read the full article from MidLantic Urology's Dr. David Cahn in The Philadelphia Inquirer.