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Screening for Bladder Cancer

Authors:
  • Amy Scholten, MPH
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Screening for Bladder Cancer

Screening is done to find a problem and treat it early. Tests are given to people who do not have symptoms but who may be at high risk.

Screening Guidelines

There are no standard tests for bladder cancer screening. Those with a higher risk of bladder cancer are:

  • Heavy smokers
  • People who work in certain jobs that expose them to known cancer-causing agents
  • People who have had bladder cancer in the past
  • People with certain structural problems since birth

Tests for those with high risk may include:

  • Urine tests—to look for blood or abnormal cells
  • Cystoscopy—to look for tumors or changes in the bladder wall

The doctor can discuss a person's bladder cancer risk and advise tests, if needed.

References

  • Bladder cancer. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/bladder-cancer. Accessed March 30, 2022.
  • Can bladder cancer be found early? American Cancer Society website. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/bladder-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/detection.html. Accessed March 30, 2022.
  • Screening for bladder and other urothelial cancers. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/types/bladder/patient/bladder-screening-pdq#section/_38. Accessed March 30, 2022.

Contributors

  • Nicole Meregian, PA
Last Updated:
2021-11-30

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This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.