What Is It? This type of cancer occurs in the bladder - the
organ that stores urine. The bladder has an inner lining
surrounded by a layer of muscle. Bladder cancer begins in the
inner lining of the bladder. It is usually discovered before it
has spread past this lining. Risk factors for bladder cancer
include: Cancer-causing substances such as tobacco smoke and
chemicals in the environment Exposure to certain industrial
chemicals Long-standing bladder stones Bladder cancer tends to
return in people who have had the disease. Many people with
bladder cancer have no symptoms. Instead, the diagnosis is made
when red blood cells are detected in a urine sample. However,
people with bladder cancer generally don't see blood in their
urine. There is not enough blood to change the urine color. This
is called microscopic hematuria. When symptoms of bladder cancer
do occur, they include: Red or rust colored urine caused by the
presence of many red blood cells (called macroscopic hematuria)
Painful urination or burning w