Bladder Cancer Prevention: An Overview
Anything that increases a person's chance of developing
bladder cancer is called a bladder cancer risk factor. Bladder cancer prevention means avoiding the risk factors that can be controlled. While bladder cancer prevention does not guarantee that someone will not develop bladder cancer, it does decrease the chances.
Bladder Cancer Prevention: Know the Risk Factors
Unfortunately, some of the risk factors for bladder cancer -- such as race, age, and family history --cannot be controlled
(see Bladder Cancer Risk Factors). Bladder cancer prevention focuses on reducing or eliminating the risk factors that can be controlled, such as:
Tobacco Use
The use of tobacco is a major bladder cancer risk factor. Cigarette smokers are 2 to 3 times more likely than nonsmokers to get bladder cancer. Pipe and cigar smokers are also at increased risk of developing bladder cancer.
Occupation
Some workers have a higher risk of getting bladder cancer because of carcinogens in the workplace, such as:
- Workers in the rubber, chemical, and leather industries
- Hairdressers
- Machinists
- Metal workers
- Printers
- Painters
- Textile workers
- Truck drivers.
Aristocholia Fangchi
Aristocholia fangchi, a Chinese herb used for weight loss, has been linked to bladder cancer.
