Bladder cancer is a common cancer of the urinary system, according to Dr. Truong Bao Thang, a specialist from the Department of Urology and Andrology at Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi. While it can affect people of all ages, certain factors such as lifestyle, occupation, or medical history increase the risk. Recognizing these risk factors is crucial for proactive prevention, early detection, and improving treatment effectiveness.

**Smoking**

Tobacco smoke contains numerous carcinogens. Once inhaled, these substances are absorbed into the bloodstream, filtered by the kidneys, and excreted in urine. As urine remains in the bladder, these harmful substances directly contact the bladder lining, gradually damaging cells and promoting cancer development.

Dr. Thang notes that the risk of developing bladder cancer increases with the duration and quantity of smoking. Quitting smoking helps reduce the risk of bladder cancer, as well as many other cardiovascular, respiratory, and cancer-related diseases.

Dr. Thang explains examination results to a patient. *Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital*

**Regular chemical exposure**

Individuals working in industries such as dye production, rubber, leather, printing, and paint, who experience prolonged exposure to industrial chemicals, face a higher risk of bladder cancer. These chemicals can be absorbed into the body and then excreted through urine. Years of prolonged exposure increase the risk of bladder lining damage and the formation of cancer cells.

Workers in these fields should adhere to safety regulations, use appropriate protective equipment, and undergo recommended regular health check-ups to safeguard their health.

**Older adults**

Bladder cancer is primarily diagnosed in individuals over 55 years old. The risk of developing the disease gradually increases with age due to accumulated cellular damage after many years of exposure to environmental and lifestyle risk factors.

**Chronic bladder conditions**

Certain conditions that cause chronic irritation or inflammation in the bladder can increase cancer risk. For example, individuals with prolonged cystitis, long-term catheterization, or those who have undergone pelvic radiation therapy or certain chemotherapy drugs, have a higher likelihood of developing the disease than the general population.

Dr. Thang clarifies that not all cases of cystitis progress to cancer. However, patients should seek complete treatment and follow up as advised if inflammation recurs frequently or persists.

**Family history of cancer**

Individuals whose parents or siblings have had bladder cancer face a higher risk due to genetic factors. Those who have previously been diagnosed with urothelial carcinoma also require regular monitoring due to a higher risk of new lesions appearing in the bladder.

The majority of bladder cancer cases are linked to modifiable risk factors like smoking and chemical exposure. Therefore, quitting smoking, adhering to occupational safety measures, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle contribute to reducing the risk of the disease.

If unusual symptoms appear, such as blood in urine, painful urination, frequent urination, or persistent urgent urination, patients should visit a healthcare facility with a urology department for examination to determine the cause. Detecting bladder cancer at an early stage helps improve treatment effectiveness, increases the likelihood of bladder preservation, and enhances quality of life.

Thu Giang