Bladder Cancer

Prevention

Some known risk factors for bladder cancer can be controlled to aid in prevention and early detection. These include:

Smoking
Some cancer-causing chemicals in tobacco can collect in urine, where they may become concentrated and damage the bladder lining. Not smoking prevents the collection of the chemicals in the bladder.

Industrial Chemicals
Repeated exposure to chemicals used by makers of dyes, rubber, leather, textiles and paint products may increase the risk of developing bladder cancer years after exposure. Following the safety instructions for handling chemicals to avoid exposure can decrease this risk.

Chronic Bladder Inflammation
Chronic or repeated urinary infections or inflammations may increase the risk for some bladder cancers. Although doctors do not believe the infection or inflammation alone causes cancer, it is important to seek medical attention immediately if blood is found in the urine.