Overview
Note: Separate PDQ summaries on Bladder Cancer Treatment and Levels of Evidence for Cancer Screening and Prevention Studies are also available.
Benefits
Understanding Bladder Cancer -- the Basics
The bladder is a pouch in the urinary tract that stores urine after it is produced by the kidneys. The bladder is lined with specialized cells called transitional cells. Bladder cancer often arises from these transitional cells. The cancer spreads by penetrating bladder muscle, infiltrating surrounding fat and tissue, and -- if untreated -- spreads to lymph nodes and other organs, such as the liver, lungs, or bones. The earlier the cancer is diagnosed, the more limited it will likely be and...
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There is inadequate evidence to determine whether screening for bladder and other urothelial cancers has an impact on mortality.
Description of the Evidence
- Study Design: There are no studies that directly address this question.
- Internal Validity: Not applicable (N/A).
- Consistency: N/A.
- Magnitude of Effects on Health Outcomes: N/A.
- External Validity: N/A.
Harms
Based on fair evidence, screening for bladder and other urothelial cancers would result in unnecessary diagnostic procedures with attendant morbidity.
Description of the Evidence
- Study Design: Opinions of respected authorities based on clinical experience, descriptive studies, or reports of expert committees.
- Internal Validity: N/A.
- Consistency: N/A.
- Magnitude of Effects on Health Outcomes: Good evidence for rare harms.
- External Validity: N/A.
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