The goal of treatment is to remove most or all of the cancer. Doing so may preserve bladder function. This may also help to keep cancer from spreading or coming back. Treatment often uses more than one method. This is based on the type of bladder cancer, patient's age, general health, and outlook. Comfort measures are given to those with later stages of cancer.
Bladder cancer treatment includes:
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Lifestyle changes
- Biologic therapy
- Photodynamic therapy
- Managing the side effects of cancer and cancer treatment
Treatments for many cancers are always changing. Some have yet to be found. As a result, clinical trials exist around the world. They test the safety and effectiveness of new drugs. Some people with cancer may be able to take part in a clinical trial with the help of their doctors. To learn more about clinical trials, visit the US National Institutes of Health website.
References
Bladder cancer. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/bladder-cancer. Accessed March 30, 2022.
Bladder cancer. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/genitourinary-disorders/genitourinary-cancer/bladder-cancer. Accessed March 30, 2022.
Bladder cancer treatment. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/types/bladder/patient/bladder-treatment-pdq#section/%5F166. Accessed March 30, 2022.
Treating bladder cancer. American Cancer Society website. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/bladder-cancer/treating.html. Accessed March 30, 2022.
Treatment option overview. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/types/bladder/patient/bladder-treatment-pdq. Accessed March 30, 2022.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Nicole Meregian, PA
- Update Date: 03/30/2022