By Dr. Rahul Jena – Uro-Oncologist & Robotic Surgeon, Bhubaneswar
Bladder cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting the urinary system. While it often develops silently, early warning signs can help detect the disease before it progresses. Among the first and most prominent symptoms is blood in the urine, a signal that should never be ignored.
In this blog, we’ll explore the early symptoms, risk factors, and importance of early diagnosis—along with insights from Dr. Rahul Jena, one of the leading uro-oncologists in Bhubaneswar.
What is Bladder Cancer?
Bladder cancer occurs when abnormal cells begin to grow uncontrollably in the bladder lining. Over time, these cells can invade deeper layers of the bladder wall and potentially spread to nearby lymph nodes or distant organs. Most cases begin in the urothelial cells that line the inside of the bladder.
Like many cancers, bladder cancer is easier to treat in its early stages. That’s why recognizing the early symptoms is so crucial.
The Most Common Warning Sign: Blood in Urine (Hematuria)
The first and most common symptom of bladder cancer is hematuria, or blood in the urine. It may appear bright red or rusty brown, or it might not be visible to the naked eye and only detected during a urine test.
In many cases, the bleeding is painless and intermittent, which often leads patients to delay seeking medical attention. Even if the blood goes away, it’s important to consult a doctor, as it could still indicate a serious condition like bladder cancer.
Dr. Rahul Jena says:
“Any presence of blood in urine—visible or microscopic—should be evaluated, especially in people over 50 or those with risk factors like smoking or occupational exposure.”
Other Warning Signs to Watch For
While blood in the urine is the most prominent symptom, other signs can also indicate bladder cancer. These include:
Frequent urination without an increase in fluid intake
Urgency to urinate, even if the bladder is not full
Burning sensation or pain while urinating (similar to a UTI)
Lower back pain on one side
Pelvic pain or discomfort
These symptoms are often mistaken for urinary tract infections (UTIs), especially in women. If standard UTI treatment does not improve your condition, further investigation for bladder cancer may be necessary.
Who Is at Risk for Bladder Cancer?
Understanding the risk factors for bladder cancer can help individuals stay alert and take preventive action. The key risk factors include:
Smoking: The leading cause of bladder cancer. Smokers are 3x more likely to develop it.
Occupational exposure: Long-term exposure to certain industrial chemicals, especially in dye, rubber, leather, or textile industries.
Age and Gender: Most cases occur in people over 55, and men are more likely to be diagnosed than women.
Chronic bladder infections: Recurrent UTIs or inflammation can increase risk.
Family history or genetics: Though not as common, a family history of bladder cancer may increase risk.
Diagnosing Bladder Cancer
If your doctor suspects bladder cancer based on symptoms or a urine test, the following diagnostic procedures may be recommended:
Urinalysis & Urine Cytology: Tests that detect abnormal cells or signs of blood in the urine.
Cystoscopy: A thin, flexible camera is inserted into the bladder to look for abnormal growths.
Biopsy: Tissue samples are collected during cystoscopy to confirm the diagnosis.
Imaging Tests: Ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI can help determine the extent and spread of the disease.
Dr. Rahul Jena advises patients not to delay diagnostic procedures, as early detection dramatically improves the chances of successful treatment.
How Is Bladder Cancer Treated?
Treatment depends on the stage and grade of the cancer. Options may include:
Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor (TURBT): A minimally invasive procedure to remove tumors from the bladder lining.
Intravesical Therapy: A form of chemotherapy delivered directly into the bladder.
Radical Cystectomy: Complete removal of the bladder in more advanced cases.
Immunotherapy and Systemic Chemotherapy: For high-grade or metastatic bladder cancer.
Robotic surgery, as performed by Dr. Rahul Jena, offers precision with minimal recovery time and reduced complications.
Why Early Detection Is Critical
Like most cancers, bladder cancer is much easier to treat when caught early. Superficial (non-muscle-invasive) bladder cancer has a high survival rate when diagnosed in Stage 0 or I. However, if left untreated, it can progress to deeper muscle layers and spread to other organs, significantly reducing survival rates.
Dr. Rahul Jena emphasizes, “Bladder cancer doesn’t always present with pain or obvious symptoms. A routine check-up could be the difference between early cure and delayed treatment.”
What You Should Do if You Notice Symptoms
Don’t ignore blood in your urine, even if it appears only once.
Visit a qualified urologist like Dr. Rahul Jena for evaluation.
Avoid self-diagnosing or assuming symptoms are minor.
If you’re at high risk, ask your doctor about regular bladder health screenings.
In Summary
Bladder cancer can be a silent disease in its early stages, with blood in urine being the earliest and most critical warning sign. Other symptoms such as frequent urination, burning, or back pain should not be dismissed. With prompt diagnosis and expert treatment, the outcome can be favorable.
If you’re experiencing any symptoms, don’t delay. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Rahul Jena, one of Bhubaneswar’s leading urologists and robotic surgeons. With years of experience and a patient-centered approach, Dr. Jena offers expert care in diagnosing and treating bladder and other urological cancers.