Here you will find information to help you understand your bladder cancer diagnosis and what to do next.

Diagnosing bladder cancer involves a cystoscopy, where a biopsy is taken for testing. Often a patient is booked for a procedure called a TURBT (transurethral resection of the bladder tumour). The biopsy results will determine the type and grade of cancer.

Positive bladder cancer diagnosis results can then lead to additional tests and scans to determine the stage of the cancer.

Videos

Short video clips from patients/carers and medical professionals explaining what to expect

Information

Further information to help you through your bladder cancer diagnosis

You are exhibiting bladder cancer symptoms, and you may feel confused and upset. We have detailed what to expect when you visit your GP, what tests they may perform, and what they will likely recommend as the next steps.

A framework to assist patients to communicate effectively with their GP during the investigation of a possible bladder cancer diagnosis. It outlines what tests should be done, when & why so as to receive appropriate & timely referral.

Your visit to the urologist is important and will give you much better information about the type, stage and grade of the cancer you may have. We have detailed the variety of possible tests you may need, why they may have been recommended and what they will tell you.

A bladder cancer diagnosis is often the beginning of a challenging journey through the healthcare system. From understanding the differences between public and private health insurance, to what to consider when making medical decisions, it can be overwhelming to navigate alongside the physical and emotional impacts of cancer. This Cancer Council brochure helps guide you through this journey.

You are not alone. There is lots of very good informational, emotional, practical and peer support available to help you and your family.

Questions

Questions to help you have informed discussions with your medical professionals

Download these questions to take to your GP following the results of your initial tests.

Download these questions to take to your Urologist for your initial visit following your GP referral.

Download these questions to take to your Urologist following your tumour pathology test results.

Learn more...