Bladder cancer is the sixth most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States.

The American Cancer Society estimates that 57,400 new cases of bladder cancer will be diagnosed in the United States during 2003. Of that number, 42,200 will be in men and 15,200 will be in women. About 12,500 people will die of the disease in 2003, with 8,600 of those deaths among men. Death rates from bladder cancer have declined substantially since the 1970s. When found and treated early, the chances for survival are very good. The American Cancer Society reports that the 5-year survival rate for urinary bladder cancer is 82 percent among whites and 65 percent among blacks. The survival rates have increased significantly in the past several decades. The reduction may reflect earlier diagnosis, better therapy, less exposure to carcinogens, or some combination of these factors.