Contents
Are You at Risk for Bladder Cancer? Key Factors to Know
Published: Apr 01, 2024
While blood in urine can have many causes, it's sometimes a sign of bladder cancer. Knowing your risk factors can help you and your doctor decide on the best approach to your health.
Age and Gender: The Basics
Age is a significant risk factor for bladder cancer. The risk increases as you get older, with most cases diagnosed in people over 70. Men are about 3 to 4 times more likely to develop bladder cancer than women. However, women often have more advanced cancer when diagnosed, possibly due to delayed detection.
Smoking: The Big One
Smoking is the single biggest risk factor for bladder cancer. Smokers are at least 3 times more likely to get bladder cancer than non-smokers. The more you smoke, the higher your risk. Even exposure to secondhand smoke may increase your risk. The good news? If you quit smoking, your risk starts to decrease.
Occupational Hazards
Certain jobs can increase your risk of bladder cancer due to exposure to chemicals. People working in the rubber, chemical, and leather industries are at higher risk. Painters, machinists, printers, and truck drivers also have an elevated risk. If you work with chemicals, always follow safety guidelines and use protective equipment.
Other Risk Factors
Other factors that may increase your risk include chronic bladder infections, certain chemotherapy drugs, and radiation to the pelvis. Some genetic factors can also play a role. Having a family history of bladder cancer increases your risk. Certain rare birth defects of the bladder can also increase risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Studies are inconclusive, but no strong link has been found.
High levels of arsenic in drinking water may increase risk.
No clear link has been found between caffeine and bladder cancer.
A diet high in fruits and vegetables may lower risk.
It can be, but most cases are not inherited.
Knowledge is Prevention
Understanding your risk factors can help you take steps to protect your health.
References
- Barocas DA, Boorjian SA, Alvarez RD, et al. Microhematuria: AUA/SUFU Guideline. J Urol 2020; 204:778.
- Loo RK, Lieberman SF, Slezak JM, et al. Stratifying risk of urinary tract malignant tumors in patients with asymptomatic microscopic hematuria. Mayo Clin Proc 2013; 88:129.
- Khadra MH, Pickard RS, Charlton M, et al. A prospective analysis of 1,930 patients with hematuria to evaluate current diagnostic practice. J Urol 2000; 163:524.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?