6 Bladder Cancer Risk Factors
Bladder Cancer begins when cancer cells begin to form in the inner layer of the bladder. Bladder cancer is common and can luckily be treated if diagnosed early. It is important to know about any possible risk factors you have for any disease because there may be treatments you can do to lower your overall chances of being diagnosed. Here are 6 risk factors that may predispose you or a loved one to developing bladder cancer.
1. Not Drinking Enough Fluids
It is important for one’s overall health to drink enough fluids, especially water, every day. Dehydration can cause muscle cramps and strain on the body, which may contribute to your risk of developing cancer. Each body needs a specific amount of water. If you take your body weight and divide that by two, that is how many ounces of water you should ideally drink in a day to ensure your body is properly hydrated.
2. Age, Ethnicity & Sex
The chance of being diagnosed with bladder cancer increases with age. 9 out of 10 people who have bladder cancer are over 50 years old. Caucasians are more likely to be diagnosed with bladder cancer than any other race. In addition, men are 3 to 4 times more likely to develop bladder cancer than women.
3. Family History of Bladder Problems & Cancer
Having a family history of urinary problems and cancer is a sign that you may have a higher predisposition to developing bladder cancer. Unfortunately, health problems genetically run in the family, so if you know a loved one that had bladder cancer in the past, it is important to begin taking preventative steps for yourself to ensure you decrease any cancer risks that are in your control. Make sure when consulting your doctor about your concerns regarding cancer that you give them a detailed list of your family’s medical history.
4. Personal History of Bladder Problems
A person is more likely to develop bladder cancer if they have a history of dealing with bladder problems. Chronic urinary infections, bladder stones, and other bladder problems such as frequent urination or urinary incontinence can add to the risk that a person may one day develop bladder cancer. Those who use a urinary catheter are also more likely than the average person to be diagnosed.
5. Exposure to Chemicals
Being exposed to certain chemicals, especially industrial chemicals, raises your risk for bladder cancer. This is because, like other cancers, changes in the DNA of your cells. This plays a big role in developing the disease. Workers in the rubber, textile, and paint industries such as painters, machinists, hairdressers, and truck drivers usually have a higher risk of contracting bladder cancer later in their lives because of the chemicals they are exposed to on a daily basis.
6. Smoking
Smoking is by far the biggest risk factor that contributes to a person’s chance of getting bladder cancer. Smoking tobacco through cigarettes, cigars, or pipes greatly increases one’s risk for contracting diseases due to the unhealthy chemicals found in tobacco. Quitting lifelong habits may be tough, but quitting smoking is the best thing one can do for the health of yourself and your family.
Treating Bladder Cancer at Somerset Urological
If you believe that you or a loved one may be at risk for bladder cancer, it is never too late to discuss with a medical professional. At Somerset Urological Associates, we bring the highest level of empathetic care with our team of qualified physicians. We are devoted to addressing your individual needs with our services and procedures, all offered with the latest technology and medical knowledge. If you believe you may be at risk for bladder cancer, don’t hesitate to contact us and schedule an appointment today!