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What is bladder cancer?

It is a cancer that starts in the lining of the bladder wall.

Cancer occurs when normal body cells get out of control, multiply and spread. These cells clump together to form a cancerous or malignant tumour which can then grow and damage healthy parts of the body.

Bladder cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK. There are two main types:

Superficial bladder cancer

This type of cancer develops on the bladder wall lining. It is relatively easy to remove, but it may come back later on, so that you need regular follow-up appointments and often more treatment. Around seven out of every 10 bladder cancers are of this type.

Invasive bladder cancer

This type of cancer grows into the bladder wall, and may then spread to other parts of the body. If you have this type, you will need major treatment. Around three out of every ten bladder cancers are invasive.

 

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