NHS Lincolnshire Integrated Care Board is raising awareness of bladder cancer during Bladder Cancer Awareness Month, this May.

Key facts and diagnosis

Around 10,000 people are diagnosed with bladder cancer each year in the UK. It is more prevalent with those aged between 50 and 70 with most new cases being diagnosed in people aged 60 and above.

Bladder cancer starts in the lining of the bladder and the most common symptom of is blood in the urine, which is usually painless. You may also experience the need to pass urine more frequently or experience pain. If you notice any of these symptoms you should contact your GP practice, however symptoms do not mean it is definitely cancer.

The five key facts are:

• Blood in the urine is the most common symptom.
• Smoking is the biggest risk factor.
• When caught early, it is highly treatable.
• It is the nineth most common cancer in the world.
• Bladder cancer is most common in men, but 1 in 4 patients are women.

Notice any symptoms? Get it checked out!

Dr Sunil Hindocha, GP and Medical Director for NHS Lincolnshire Integrated Care Board said:

“Anyone who notices blood when they pass urine should contact their GP practice to have it checked out even if it just once. 

There are a range of tests that can be carried out and not all instances will result in a cancer diagnosis.  It is always better to get it checked out as if it is a positive result, it is more treatable if diagnosed early”

If diagnosed, there are a range of treatments available depending on the stage, type of cancer and your general health.

For more information about the signs, symptoms and treatments visit: Bladder cancer – NHS.