Although researchers cannot pinpoint the exact causes of bladder cancer, several risk factors for the disease have been identified. The greatest risk factor for developing bladder cancer is smoking. When people smoke, the carcinogens are absorbed into the lungs and enter the bloodstream. Our blood is then filtered by the kidneys and the waste is then converted in urine, which is released to the bladder to exit our body. Unfortunately, the carcinogens from the tobacco remain in the urine and damage the cells in our bladder, potentially causing cancer.
We also know that occupational exposure to certain chemicals increases our risk of bladder cancer. Chemicals used in making dyes is strongly associated to the development of bladder cancer. Chemicals called aromatic amines at factories that produce leather, rubber, paint, and other products are also suspected.
We also know that hair stylists, painters, those who work at printing factories, and truck drives also develop bladder cancer more commonly than those who work in other industries. Other risk factors for bladder cancer include:
We also know that occupational exposure to certain chemicals increases our risk of bladder cancer. Chemicals used in making dyes is strongly associated to the development of bladder cancer. Chemicals called aromatic amines at factories that produce leather, rubber, paint, and other products are also suspected.
We also know that hair stylists, painters, those who work at printing factories, and truck drives also develop bladder cancer more commonly than those who work in other industries. Other risk factors for bladder cancer include:
- being Caucasian
- being male
- increasing age
- personal or family history of bladder cancer
- bladder birth defects
- chronic bladder inflammation (cystitis)
- not consuming enough liquids
