Why Choose Us for Bladder Cancer Care
At Huntsman Cancer Institute, you receive expert, multidisciplinary care for bladder cancer through our Urologic Cancers Program. Your care team includes urologic oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and supportive care specialists. We work together to create a personalized treatment plan that is focused on your needs and goals. Our approach combines advanced technology, clinical innovation, and optimal cancer control to preserve your bladder function and quality of life.
"My doctor was wonderful in the way she prepped us for the surgery, showed up with her team, checked on me, and took care of me. I truly believe I was blessed."
PJ DiPentino
Treatments We Offer
Treatment depends on cancer stage, location, and overall health. These are common options:
- Surgery (e.g., transurethral resection, partial or radical cystectomy)
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy (neoadjuvant, adjuvant, or systemic)
- Combinations of therapies (e.g., chemotherapy plus radiation)
Our Expertise
As the National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center serving the Mountain West, we’re here to offer you the latest treatments and the highest level of care available, including access to the following:
- Multidisciplinary tumor boards to coordinate optimal treatment sequencing
- Treatment foring all stages of bladder cancer
- Integration of clinical trials for novel therapies
- Emphasis on preserving bladder function and minimizing side effects
Patient Care Philosophy
We believe no one should face cancer alone. Our dedicated and world-renowned doctors, nurses, and medical staff are at the forefront of patient-centered care. We treat the whole person, not just their cancer.
Each day, our medical, surgical, and radiation oncologists work together across disciplines to create and coordinate treatment plans for every patient. We understand cancer is a complex disease. That is why we use a team approach that includes social workers and support groups, as well as wellness and integrative health services such as acupuncture, massage, creative arts, and more.
Find a Bladder Cancer Doctor
Bladder Cancer Research
Huntsman Cancer Institute is a nationally recognized leader in urologic cancer research, focusing on improving detection, treatment, and survivorship. Our specialized brings doctors and scientists together to turn scientific discoveries into better outcomes for you.
With the largest Phase 1 clinical trials program in the Mountain West, Huntsman Cancer Institute offers exclusive access to cutting-edge therapies for bladder cancers.
Clinical Trials
Make an Appointment with a Bladder Cancer Specialist
To make an appointment with a Bladder Cancer specialist, fill out our appointment form or call 801-587-7000. Our team will determine if your insurance covers treatment at Huntsman Cancer Institute or if you need a referral from a primary care doctor.
External providers can refer a patient using the online referral form or by calling 801-587-7000 to speak to a patient registration specialist.
Bladder Cancer Basics
Bladder cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancerous) cells develop in the bladder wall lining.
These are warning signs of bladder cancer:
- Blood in the urine (from slightly rusty to bright red)
- Frequent urination
- Painful urination (dysuria)
- Lower back pain (especially if tumor is more advanced)
It may begin as tumors on the surface lining (urothelial carcinoma) that can invade into deeper layers.
Many of these symptoms can be caused by other conditions. If you are experiencing any concerning signs, please schedule a screening today.
These are risk factors for bladder cancer:
- Older age — risk increases with age
- Personal history of bladder disease or prior bladder cancer
- Family history of bladder cancer
- Smoking, especially cigarette smoking
- Use of Aristolochia fangchi (a Chinese herbal remedy)
Understand your risk. Schedule a genetic counseling session today.
Diagnosis
To diagnose bladder cancer, providers may use the following:
- Tissue sampling / biopsy (examining cells or tissue under microscope)
- Ultrasound of urinary system
- Physical exam and history
- Laboratory tests (blood, urine)
- Imaging studies (CT, MRI, with contrast, possibly intravenous dye) to assess extent and spread
When a person is diagnosed with cancer, concerns about treatments and side effects, hospital stays, and medical bills are common. Huntsman Cancer Institute offers many ways to support patients, caregivers, and loved ones.
Staging
Bladder cancer is staged by how far it has invaded the bladder wall, adjacent tissues, lymph nodes, or distant sites:
- Stage 0 (0a, 0is): Tumor confined to the inner lining (carcinoma in situ)
- Stage 1: Cancer has spread to connective tissue beneath the lining, but not into muscle.
- Stage 2: Tumor invades into the muscle layer of the bladder wall.
- Stage 3: Cancer extends into the fat surrounding the bladder and possibly into adjacent organs (e.g., reproductive organs).
- Stage 4: Cancer has spread to distant sites (metastases), lymph nodes beyond pelvis, or abdominal wall/other organs.
Even when bladder cancer spreads to a distant site (for example, bone), those cells are still bladder cancer cells — this is metastatic bladder cancer, not a new bone cancer.
Need help navigating your care? The Cancer Learning Center is here to support you with personalized guidance, resources, and answers to your questions.
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