Bladder Cancer: Challenges, Innovations, And Opportunities For Primary Care Physicians

By Sarah Anderson, Originally published on Medical Economics

Bladder cancer, a prevalent global health concern, ranks ninth in incidence and 13th in mortality among cancers. The disease primarily manifests as urothelial carcinoma, with non-muscle-invasive and muscle-invasive types, and disproportionately affects men. Key risk factors include smoking, age, and occupational exposures.

Recent advancements in treatment, notably immunotherapy and targeted therapies, are transforming the management of advanced bladder cancer cases. Checkpoint inhibitors and FGFR inhibitors are at the forefront, offering new hope through clinical trials predominantly conducted in North America, Asia-Pacific, and Europe. These trials are pivotal for developing innovative therapies, providing clinicians with opportunities to deliver cutting-edge care. However, challenges such as healthcare disparities, high treatment costs, and significant side effects persist. The field is rapidly evolving, but ensuring equitable access to advancements remains essential.