THE RED FLAG IN YOUR URINE: Understanding and Detecting Bladder Cancer

The bladder is an organ which stores urine, which is produced by the kidneys. The bladder is a hollow, viscus organ that holds it for a few hours before it is eliminated. While it can occur at any age, the median age of diagnosis is typically 70 years or older.

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Risk factors:

Smoking is the leading cause of bladder cancer, with current smokers being four times more likely to develop the disease than nonsmokers. Tobacco smoke contains carcinogens. These are filtered by the bladder, and over time, these toxins can cause DNA damage, leading to cancer. The risk of developing bladder cancer decreases after quitting, but former smokers still have a higher risk compared to those who never smoked.

The bloodstream, filtered by the kidneys, and concentrate in the bladder, damaging the cells.

Workplace Exposure: People who have worked with certain industrial chemicals, especially aromatic amines found in dyes, rubber, leather, textiles, and paint manufacturing, are at increased risk.