Risk Factors of the Bladder Cancer

Abstract

Introduction and purpose: Bladder cancer [BC] is one of the most common cancers in the world. The number of cases of BC recorded in the National Cancer Registry has been approximately 7.5 thousand annually since 2013. The National Cancer Registry's "Cancer in Poland in 2021" report ranks BC as the 4 most frequent cancer in men in Poland. A deeper comprehension of the disease will aid in the creation of more effective preventative and therapeutic measures. Our effort aims to categorize and characterize risk factors [RF] for BC.

Review Methods: A systematic search of the ‘’PubMed’’ database was conducted, focusing on studies published within the last 5 years. The search strategy used relevant key words related to BC and RF. Studies were included if they provided information on RF associated with BC in the adult population. The articles most pertinent to the subject have been chosen.

State of knowledge: BC is recognized to have several RF. Current studies suggest that smoking is the most important RF. Other factors that increase the risk of BC include, for ex. occupational exposures to arsenic, toluene, rubber, petroleum products, agricultural chemicals, dyes, aromatic amines. BC development is also influenced by a positive family history of BC and diesel exhaust emissions, certain dietary components, low physical activity, obesity, diabetes, male sex, and older age. Decreased risk of BC is observed in cases of higher consumption of MUFAs, plant-based oils, fish, some fruits and vegetables.

Summary: Variety of environmental, genetic and medical factors are considered with an increased risk of BC. Studies of RF for this disease may help in the development of prevention, enabling the implementation of proper screening programs and diagnostic procedures. More research on this subject is necessary to completely comprehend the etiopathology of BC, identify all RF, and determine whether they may be used in the process of treatment.