It is related to environmental factors most notably cigarette smoking. There are alternative experimental protocols for patients who do not wish to undergo surgery or are not medically fit for extensive surgery. Our institution is involved in several of these protocols. It has been used effectively to improve wound healing after surgery. Give your father the best chance at decreasing his suffering.
Bladder cancer can be quite painful.
Also, without treatment, these cancers tend to cause bleeding into the urine which can become uncontrolled. Weigh all of your options carefully. Consult a group of physicians that specialize in Urologic Oncology. We have several physicians involved in both surgical and nonsurgical protocols. This information is provided for general medical education purposes only.