Z Urology

Bladder Cancer Care for Men & Women

Experience leading urological care from specialists who treat every patient as a person—not just their conditions. Each of our board-certified urologists and exceptional staff members brings a wealth of experience, compassion, and personability to support you through the best possible treatment.

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Risk Factors for Overactive Bladder

Things that can increase the risk of overactive bladder and other types of urinary incontinence include:

Gender (more common in women)

Gender (more common in women)
Age
Obesity
Smoking
Neurological issues
Certain medical conditions like diabetes

Temporary causes can include alcohol, caffeine, medications, or urinary tract infections. Persistent causes may involve pregnancy, childbirth, prostate issues, or neurological disorders.

What to Know About Bladder Cancer

The bladder is a hollow organ in the pelvis that stores urine before it is expelled from the body. Bladder cancer occurs when cells in the bladder's lining grow and multiply uncontrollably, forming a tumor. It’s a relatively common cancer that affects men and women, with more than 80,000 new cases diagnosed in the United States each year.

Bladder cancer typically begins in the cells that line the inner surface of the bladder and may spread to nearby tissues and organs, including the prostate gland, urethra, uterus, vagina, rectum, or pelvic wall. Early diagnosis and treatment of bladder cancer are essential for a good prognosis, as it can be more challenging to treat once it has spread to other body parts.

Signs of Bladder Cancer

Early signs of bladder cancer can resemble simple issues such as a urinary tract infection. If you notice possible signs and symptoms of bladder cancer, visit a urologist immediately:

Blood in the urine (hematuria)
Painful urination (dysuria)
Frequent urination
Urinary urgency
Urinary incontinence
Lower back pain
Pelvic pain
Fatigue
Weight loss
Swelling in the legs
Anemia
Loss of appetite
Bone pain (if cancer has spread to the bones)

Note that the presence of these symptoms does not verify that you have bladder cancer. Consult with a urologist if you experience these signs.

Bladder Cancer Risk Factors

Doctors don’t know what causes bladder cancer. However, certain factors can increase the risk of developing it.

Smoking: Tobacco products contain harmful chemicals that can damage the bladder’s lining and increase the risk of cancer.
Chemical Exposure: Being exposed to chemicals like benzene and other aromatic amines may cause an increased risk.
Age: Most cases of bladder cancer are diagnosed in people over 55.
Gender: Men are more likely to develop bladder cancer than women.
Chronic Bladder Inflammation: An inflamed bladder, sometimes caused by frequent urinary tract infections, may increase the risk.
Previous Cancer Treatments: Previous radiation therapy or chemotherapy could increase the risk.
Genetics: Some genetic mutations or inherited conditions, such as Lynch syndrome, may increase the risk of developing bladder cancer.

History of Bladder Cancer: People who have a personal or family history of bladder cancer may be at an increased risk.

How is Bladder Cancer Diagnosed?

There are several tests that doctors use to diagnose bladder cancer.

Cystoscopy: A tube with a lens attachment is inserted inside the bladder and urethra to check for abnormalities.
Biopsy: During some cystoscopy procedures, a tissue sample is taken to be tested for cancer cells.
Imaging tests: An ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, or intravenous pyelogram (IVP) can let doctors see how your urinary tract is working so they can identify cancer signs.
Urine tests: A urine cytology examines a urine sample under a microscope to look for cancer cells. A urine tumor marker test looks for the presence of substances in urine that are produced by cancer cells.

If cancer is present, the abnormal cells form a tumor that can grow to invade nearby tissues. In time, some abnormal cells can break away and spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body.

Bladder Cancer Prevention and Treatment at Z Urology

Z Urology is dedicated to helping patients prevent bladder cancer and other urological conditions that affect the bladder. The best way to prioritize prevention is to:

Quit Smoking. Individuals who smoke are at a much higher risk of developing the disease than those who do not. Quitting smoking can be challenging, but many resources are available to help individuals quit, including nicotine replacement therapy, support groups, and counseling.
Stay Hydrated. Drinking plenty of fluids helps flush out toxins from the bladder and reduces the concentration of carcinogens in the urine, reducing the risk of bladder cancer.
Live a Healthy Lifestyle. Eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly to maintain your weight and boost your immune system.
Avoid Exposure to Harmful Chemicals. Avoid exposure to harmful chemicals such as arsenic, benzene, and other industrial chemicals, as these have been linked to an increased risk of bladder cancer.
Address Chronic Bladder Conditions. Frequent bladder infections, inflammation, and urinary disease can increase the risk of bladder cancer, so work with a urologist to manage your overall bladder function.

Treatments depend on the diagnosis and stage of cancer. Common treatments for bladder cancer include:

Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor (TURBT)
Radical Cystectomy
Intravesical Therapy
Chemotherapy
Immunotherapy
Radiation Therapy
Targeted Drug Therapy

A comprehensive approach to bladder cancer recovery often involves medical treatment, lifestyle changes, and emotional support so that patients achieve optimal health and well-being.

Reach out to Z Urology to schedule a consultation about bladder cancer.

LEARN MORE ABOUT TREATMENT

Patient Feedback for Z Urology

Our patients are the reason we strive for exceptional urological care and treatment! Here’s what some of our South Florida patients are saying about their experience at our clinics.

I have recommended many people to this office and each one has thanked me. On a scale of 1 to 5 (5 being the best), Dr. Z and his staff are a 12.
– Alex S.
The wait was not long. I was greeted by a friendly nurse who took my sonogram of the kidneys and bladder. The doctor came in after a short time. Dr. Hollowell has a gentle voice and great bedside manner. He is very informative about my issues and I left feeling relieved and hopeful for future visits. The receptionists were also helpful and friendly. I recommend this office. Just wish it was closer to home.
– Allison T.
"I found Doctor Varghese through my insurance provider network and read reviews in Healthgrades. Dr. Varghese is terrific. She explains things so they are easy to understand. I feel she is on top of several medical problems I’m having. I had a cystoscopy and was offered nitric oxide (mild gas). It was perfect. I have had the procedure in the past but it was the most uncomfortable feeling I ever experienced. Not this time. Doctor Varghese is an excellent listener and remembers what I tell her from the previous visits.

Let me sum up my feelings about being under Dr. Varghese's care. I have new health insurance now so I can see doctors near my home, but instead I’ll continue to drive 75 miles each way to and from Pompano Beach to Stuart, FL [to see her].”
– Jeffery P.
“I've been coming here for cancer for 10 years and I've had nothing but good visits every time. Staff is friendly and the doctors and PA'S are great. Dr. Z takes the time to ask questions and explain everything. He is amazing.”

– Bill S.
“El Dr. Pedro Espino Grosso es un médico especialista en Urología es también especialista en entender, comprender y atender la preocupación de su paciente. Gracias por su profesionalismo como para todo el staff y las enfermeras por su amable y compasivo trato. Por favor no cambien!”
– Ana L.
I have new health insurance now so I can see doctors near my home, but instead, I’ll continue to drive 75 miles each way to and from Pompano Beach to Stuart, FL to visit Z Urology!
– Jeffery P.
“Dr. Mini Varghese of Z Urology is without a doubt the best Urologist in South Florida. She not only takes care of my father but now she's taking care of all my needs too. The team she has behind her at Z Urology is amazing, they go up and beyond their call of duty. A big shoutout to Z Urology in Pompano Beach, FL, thanks for keeping the pipes flowing...you gals are the Best!!!! Thanks Dr. Varghese.”
– Brent S.
“Dr. Brar was awesome! He was very thorough with everything to ensure we got to the bottom of my issue! I felt like he cared and listened. I will be going back. The office was busy and some people were waiting a while but I was seen fairly quickly, I did fill out all the paperwork ahead of time so not sure if that helped! The person who helped me at the front desk was great and helped me with all my questions.”
– Britney C.
Everyone seemed nice, friendly and welcoming. I was also impressed with the examination and the way the staff treated me. Dr. Mike took the time with me to listen and advise me as to what treatment plan might be needed.
– Jimmy Z.
Great specialist, hard to find a more personable and efficient medical office anywhere else. I was welcome from the moment I came in, everyone was very friendly and all my questions and needs were expertly attended to. Never been to a urologist so this was new to me, but I definitely felt comfortable and heard. It was a drive from neighboring Miami but well worth it. Highly recommend. Thanks, Dr. Z!
– Jose T.
Thank you Dr. Michael Zahalsky for the surgery, you changed my life completely. I'm so happy, now no more pain and I'm feeling better than ever, thanks again for the great staff in your office. Very professional. Felt like family.
– Frank C.
They are very friendly. My surgeon went through the same procedure and read my mind of all my concerns. He reassured me everything would be okay and life would go on.
– Jeremy C.
Three words: Kind, Caring and Compassionate! This office is the best of the best. The front desk employees are super friendly and the doctors are professional and spoke to me in a down-to-earth & making it easier for me to understand what was going on. I am able to make informed decisions with the material that was provided to me.
– A.D.Z.
I had a great first visit with Dr. Z and his staff. I was seen within a reasonable amount of time. Dr. Z was personable and, after hearing my history and doing a targeted physical exam, directed his staff to perform ultrasound and bladder testing which was done efficiently and with discretion. Dr. Z then came in and spent a good amount of time explaining a clinical treatment plan. I left feeling I was in the hands of a total professional office from the top down.
– Harvey A.
Z urology is the best and I have to say Dr. Zahalsky is extremely knowledgeable and such a humble and pleasant human being. I always feel welcome at Z Urology.
– Kimaro W.

In Network with Most Insurance Plans

Our clinic accepts most major insurance plans and offers flexible financing options to ensure you receive the care you need. Our team will work with you to maximize your benefits and minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Questions about insurance coverage?

Contact our office at (954) 714-8200. Additionally, we encourage you to call your insurance provider to confirm what your coverage includes.

Schedule a Consultative Appointment at Z Urology

At Z Urology, we're not just treating cancer—we're treating you as a whole person. Our compassionate care and advanced therapies give you the best chance for a positive outcome and improved quality of life.

Contact Z Urology to find the medical care team you need for this difficult diagnosis.

Schedule an Appointment
or Call (954) 714-8200