Causes and Risk Factors of Bladder Cancer
The exact causes and risk factors of bladder cancer are not always clear, but most cases are linked to genetic mutations in the cells lining the bladder. These mutations cause cells to grow and divide uncontrollably, forming tumours.
Top risk factors:
- Smoking
- The most significant risk factor.
- Tobacco smoke contains carcinogenic chemicals that are filtered by the kidneys and excreted in urine, which exposes the bladder lining to toxins.
- Smokers are 3 to 4 times more likely to develop bladder cancer than non-smokers.
- Chemical exposure
- People working in industries such as dye manufacturing, rubber, leather, textiles, and printing are at higher risk.
- Chemicals like aromatic amines have been strongly linked to bladder cancer.
- Poor workplace safety practices increase this risk, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
- Chronic bladder irritation
- Long-term catheter use, bladder stones, or frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs) can irritate the bladder lining.
- Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection prevalent in some parts of rural South Africa, is linked to squamous cell bladder cancer.
- Age and gender
- Most common in people over 55
- Men are more than 3 times as likely to be diagnosed than women.
- Family and personal history
- A family history of bladder cancer increases risk.
- Previous bladder cancer also raises recurrence risk significantly.
- Certain medications or treatments
- Chemotherapy drugs like cyclophosphamide
- Radiation therapy to the pelvis
- Arsenic in drinking water
- High levels of arsenic are a concern in certain regions, though this is not a widespread issue in South Africa.
Reducing your risk:
- Quit smoking
- Use protective gear in chemical-based jobs
- Drink plenty of fluids to dilute urine
- Treat bladder infections early
- Avoid unnecessary exposure to radiation or harmful chemicals
Causes and Risk Factors of Bladder Cancer
Understanding these risk factors helps in early detection and prevention, especially for high-risk groups.
👉 [Next: Diagnosis and Staging of Bladder Cancer]
