No matter the diagnosis, we at Palo Verde Cancer Center believe there is always hope for each patient. That’s why we proudly offer a wide range of state-of-the-art treatment options delivered by a dedicated team of board-certified oncology specialists. With Glendale & Payson cancer treatment, our mission is to provide the most advanced and compassionate cancer care available to the Phoenix metro area and surrounding communities. That includes bladder cancer treatment plans tailored to fit your unique needs and lifestyle.
Some Fast Facts About Bladder Cancer
You might be surprised to discover how common bladder cancer is. Around 80,000 new cases are diagnosed each year and five-year survival rates typically reach about 82 percent. It’s the fourth most common cancer in men, and the eighth-most common type in women. A few other statistics should help you put things in perspective:
- Bladder cancer is more common in men.
- White individuals are diagnosed at twice the rate of African-American patients.
- Around 90 percent of bladder cancer diagnoses occur in people over the age of 55.
- The median age for a bladder cancer diagnosis is 73.
- Bladder cancer is among the top 10 common types of cancer in the United States.
Understanding Bladder Cancer
As you probably know, your bladder is a small balloon-shaped organ located inside your pelvis right below your abdomen. As an important part of your excretory system, it handles the excess water and waste products filtered by your kidneys. By flushing these out as urine, it helps take harmful toxins out of your body.
Many forms of bladder cancer are classified as “superficial,” meaning that they only exist within the lining of the bladder. Superficial cancers are the easiest to treat, resulting in five-year survival rates of around 94 percent. Most cases involve transitional cell carcinoma, affecting cells that help your body store and move urine. Approximately 10 percent of cases involve adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and small cell carcinoma.
About 25 percent of bladder cancers become invasive, spreading beyond the lining and posing a greater threat to metastasize throughout the body. While invasive cases are more difficult to treat, your oncology specialist at Palo Verde Cancer Center can develop a personalized therapeutic plan with a carefully selected group of treatments to help you achieve your best possible outcome.
Contact Your Bladder Cancer Specialist Today!
Please reach out to Palo Verde Cancer Specialists today to explore your treatment options. We understand the challenges you’re facing, and we’re here to provide compassionate support and guidance. With five convenient locations throughout the valley, we’re dedicated to helping you every step of the way.