Bladder Cancer

Look to us for comprehensive bladder cancer care.

You'll benefit from having a team that has experience diagnosing and treating all types of bladder cancer.

Nationally Ranked Cancer Care

UC San Diego Health is repeatedly ranked among the nation's best in both cancer care and urology by U.S. News & World Report. We are also the only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in San Diego County. This is the highest possible rating for a U.S. cancer center, and it means you’ll receive the best possible care and support. Studies show patient outcomes are better at NCI-designated cancer centers.

What Is Bladder Cancer?

Bladder cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancerous) cells form in the tissues of the bladder. Bladder cancer is one of the most common cancers. Most people with bladder cancer have superficial and noninvasive tumors, which don’t spread to the muscle tissue. Treatment is often very effective.

Bladder Cancer Risk Factors

You may have an increased risk of bladder cancer if you:

  • Smoke
  • Are male
  • Are over the age of 55
  • Have an unhealthy, unbalanced diet

Talk to your doctor about how you can reduce your risk of bladder cancer. Explore our comprehensive cancer prevention, advanced screening and diagnostic services.

Detecting Bladder Cancer

Your UC San Diego Health team uses the most advanced technologies available to detect bladder cancer early and accurately. We’re currently the only health system in the San Diego region using both white light and blue light cystoscopies to carefully examine the lining of your bladder. Blue light cystoscopy can identify lesions that may not be visible to the naked eye and could otherwise be missed. The enhanced imaging technique can help your doctor surgically remove all cancerous tissue and monitor your response to treatment.

More about blue light cystoscopy

Comprehensive, Personalized Treatments for Bladder Cancer

Find a full range of bladder cancer treatments.

Robotically Assisted Surgery

At UC San Diego Health, cystectomies and reconstructive surgeries are performed with robotic assistance. Robotic-assist systems allow your surgeon to magnify the surgical field, making it much easier to work around the tiny nerves that affect sexual function.

Follow-Up Care

Bladder cancer recurs in about half of all patients. For this reason, your doctor will recommend comprehensive follow-up care, including regular cystoscopic evaluations for up to two years. 

Urologic Cancer Doctors & Surgeons

At UC San Diego Health, your cancer care is led by a multidisciplinary team of doctors who specialize in your type of cancer.  Highly specialized multidisciplinary care is a hallmark of top-tier academic medical centers such as UC San Diego Health. For patients like you, it means you receive the highest level of care. Find a urologic cancer specialist.

Second Opinion Services

When you have a diagnosis as serious as cancer, you deserve a second opinion on your treatment options.

How to Get a Second Opinion

Clinical Trials

Advancing Cancer Care and Prevention

UC San Diego Health physicians are actively researching ways to improve cancer care. By joining a clinical trial, you may receive a new cancer treatment before it is available to the public. If your cancer has not responded to standard therapies, talk to your doctor about whether a clinical trial could be right for you.

Patient & Family Support Services

At UC San Diego Health, your care goes beyond treating disease. It also includes supporting you and your loved ones emotionally throughout your cancer journey. Most of our support services are free.

Browse All Support Services

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