Understanding the risk factors of bladder cancer: New patient factsheet available

We launched our latest resource in the WBCPC Factsheet Series: “Understanding the Risk Factors of Bladder Cancer”. This factsheet is designed to help people recognise the main contributors to bladder cancer risk and take proactive steps to protect their health.

Bladder cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, yet many people remain unaware of the factors that may increase their chances of developing it. By understanding and addressing these risks, individuals, families and healthcare providers can play a key role in prevention and early detection.

What raises your risk?

The factsheet highlights the most common risk factors:

• Smoking and tobacco use: The leading cause of bladder cancer, making people at least three times more likely to develop the disease compared to non-smokers.
• Exposure to industrial chemicals: Contact with chemicals used in dyes, rubber, leather, textiles and paints can significantly raise risk.
• Chronic bladder inflammation: Long-term bladder irritation or repeated urinary infections can increase susceptibility.
• Past radiation exposure: Previous cancer treatments involving radiation can heighten the likelihood of bladder cancer later in life.
• Parasitic infections: In some parts of the world, schistosomiasis is a known cause of bladder cancer.

The factsheet also highlights differences between men and women, noting that while men are more likely to develop bladder cancer, women are often diagnosed at later stages, which can affect outcomes.

How to lower your risk

The factsheet provides practical advice for prevention and healthier living, including:

• Quit smoking and avoid second-hand smoke: the most effective way to reduce risk.
• Adopt a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables while limiting processed and fried meats.
• Stay hydrated to help flush potential carcinogens from the bladder.
• Ensure workplace safety by advocating for strong health and safety measures.
• Schedule regular checkups and seek medical advice if symptoms or concerns arise.

Designed for everyone

This factsheet includes expert guidance and evidence-based information in clear, accessible language. It is available in both English and Spanish, making it useful for individuals, families, patient organisations, and healthcare professionals. It can be printed or shared online to help raise awareness in your community.

We invite you to download, read, and share this new factsheet widely, and help us spread knowledge that can save lives.

For more information or to access the full WBCPC factsheet series, please visit our Resources section.

Questions? Contact us at: info@worldbladdercancer.org