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Epidemiology of bladder cancer
D T Silverman1, P Hartge, A S Morrison
1Epidemiology and Biostatistics Program, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland.
Hematology/Oncology Clinics of North America
|February 1, 1992
Summary
Cigarette smoking and occupational exposures are major causes of bladder cancer. Quitting smoking reduces risk, but it may not return to baseline levels for former smokers.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Oncology
Background:
- Bladder cancer affects approximately 49,000 individuals annually in the US, with significant mortality.
- Risk factors vary by demographics, with white men having the highest lifetime risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review established and potential risk factors for bladder cancer.
- To summarize current understanding of smoking, occupational exposures, diet, and other factors in bladder carcinogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological studies and established scientific literature on bladder cancer risk factors.
- Analysis of data on smoking prevalence, occupational exposures, dietary habits, and other potential etiological agents.
Main Results:
- Cigarette smoking is a primary cause, accounting for about half of bladder cancer in men and one-third in women. Risk decreases after quitting but may not reach non-smoker levels.
- Occupational exposures to aromatic amines in industries like dye and rubber manufacturing are confirmed causes.
- Other factors like coffee, artificial sweeteners, and alcohol show weak or inconsistent associations; diet requires further research. Ionizing radiation and certain medications are less common causes.
Conclusions:
- Smoking cessation is crucial for reducing bladder cancer risk.
- Occupational health regulations are vital for preventing chemically induced bladder cancers.
- Further research into dietary influences and other environmental factors is necessary to fully understand and prevent bladder cancer.